Muscat – Apart from the obvious need to drive safely, it’s also necessary that we check our vehicle regularly to guard against failures which can result in accidents not directly related to how we drive.

Such checks should be done at least weekly; more frequently if we regularly drive longer distances.

A useful method of remembering what to check is to employ the mnemonic ‘FLOWERY’. This relates to the following elements of best practice related to vehicle safety checking:

F = Fuel

L = Light

O = Oil

W = Water

E = Electrics

R = Rubber

Y = You

Let’s go through the headings in more detail:

FUEL

We must check to ensure we have sufficient fuel for our journey; running out of fuel in the wrong place – especially in hot climates like Oman – can kill.

LIGHTS

It’s a legal requirement that all lights fitted to the outside of the vehicle are working. Check at least once a week.

OIL

With our vehicle on a level surface, to ensure a correct reading, we should check the oil engine level to make sure it’s at the correct height on the dipstick in accordance with the owner’s handbook. Remember that over-filling an engine with oil can blow seals and, as with a lack of fuel, leave us stranded.

This heading can also include the need to check hydraulic fluids, such as the brake and clutch systems. If applicable, don’t forget the automatic transmission fluid.

WATER

Most modern vehicles allow us to check the coolant level by simply looking at the level of the translucent expansion tank. Although the chances of our coolant freezing in Oman’s climate is almost non-existent, it’s worth remembering that modern antifreeze is nevertheless required because it contains a rust inhibitor that protects the engine.

The ‘water’ check also includes the screen-wash. If we find ourselves in a situation where we can’t see properly and are unable to clear the windscreen, the potential for a crash is heightened.

We should also check the level of electrolyte in the battery and top-up with distilled water, if necessary. If a sealed unit, check the electrolyte indicator for the correct colour (see vehicle’s user-manual).

ELECTRICS

Complete a full lights check before any journey, not just at night.

Keep in mind from the ‘Use of Signals’ article how important brake lights are to inform and control following drivers.

Don’t forget the horn, internal lights and dashboard warning indicators.

A horn is designed to warn other road users of our presence; danger is created if we’re unable to do that.

RUBBER

Please see my separate Muscat Daily article about tyres, and how vital their regular maintenance is to ensure safety.

However, when we think of ‘rubber’, we shouldn’t forget the windscreen wipers. These are often neglected in a climate with little rain. They work with the screen-wash to ensure we can always see properly. We should also consider checking the various rubber hoses under the bonnet/hood to see if there is a leak of precious fluids.

Another check rarely considered under this heading is the rubber pedal covers. When they become worn, our foot can more easily slip off the pedals. This can be particularly problematic with a brake pedal if our shoes are wet.

YOU

Before any journey ask yourself if you’re fit to drive and never risk it if you’re too tired, under the influence of drink or drugs (prescription or otherwise) or are suffering from some form of debilitating illness. All of these things adversely affect driver performance.

For vehicle maintenance, think ‘FLOWERY’!

Safe driving!

Jeremy Fox is a British driving and road safety expert. Since 2009, he has managed the driver-training operations of Technical & Administrative Training Institute. He considers it his privilege to have contributed to Oman’s improved road safety.