Pre-Trip Vehicle Safety Inspection

Check your fluids

This includes the engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Ensure that each fluid level is adequate, and check for any signs of leaks

Inspect your tires – tire pressure

Each day, check to see if the tires look properly inflated. If you’re not sure they are, check with a tire pressure gauge. Check for signs of tire damage or unusual wear.

Test your brakes

As you back out of the garage and before you enter traffic, gently apply your brakes to confirm they are operating as they should.

Tip: To periodically check that the ABS is working, find a quiet parking lot with no traffic, get your vehicle up to 60 km/hr, grip the steering wheel, and firmly apply your brakes.

Inspect your lights

Headlight – Confirm high beams, low beams, and fog lights work.

Tail lights, brake lights – Check that tail lights and brake lights work.

Turn signals, emergency flashers – Confirm both front and rear signal lights, and emergency flashers work.

Check your wipers

Confirm wiper controls work, and wiper blades clear the windshield.

Tip: Replace wiper blades when you see streaks or gaps when you use them. 

Battery

Confirm the battery is securely mounted; ensure battery terminal connections are tight (tug test) and check for signs of corrosion.

Roadside emergency/first aid kit

Check to make sure your emergency kit is in the vehicle and has what you need.