If the battery is fitted with a filler cap or caps, check the level of the fluid. The plates in each cell should be covered. Top up with distilled water if necessary, but avoid overfilling.

Lights

Check the operation of the front and rear lights, brake lights and indicators, including hazard lights, each time you use the vehicle.

Make use of reflections in windows and garage doors, or ask someone to help you.

Carry a selection of spare bulbs and replace any faulty ones immediately. Your vehicle handbook should give the bulb replacement procedure.

Headlights MUST be properly adjusted to

avoid dazzling other road users
enable the driver to see the road ahead.

All lights MUST

be clean and in good working order
show a steady light.

Indicators MUST

be clearly visible
be in good working order
show the correct colour
flash between once and twice per second.

Windscreen washers and wipers

Check the windscreen washer mechanism and the washer reservoirs. Make sure there’s enough liquid.

The washer can be very important in wet, muddy conditions. If you carry a supply of water, you can use a sponge to wash away dirt wherever you happen to be.

Check the wipers. Replace worn or damaged blades. If your vehicle is fitted with headlight washers, the same attention should be paid to these.

The horn

Check the horn is working properly and sounding clearly. Take care not to alarm or annoy others when doing so.

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