Are you doing your bit to remain safe on the roads?

The MOT extension during 2020 has been an unprecedented event in the history of motoring. Never before has the whole population of UK driver’s been able to postpone their annual car examinations all at once for a united purpose, since the tests were first introduced in 1960.

 

What this meant for us drivers is that although we did not have to take our vehicles into a garage for testing if our next MOT test was due between 30th March to 1st August during the height of the pandemic, but we were still responsible for the overall safety of our vehicles.

At Queens Park Garage, we believe that all drivers could benefit from making regular checks to their vehicles to help maintain the longevity and overall safety of their vehicles rather than depending on the yearly MOT test to identify issues, which unfortunately many drivers do rely upon

Do you know what the full list of checks are that happen during an MOT?

  • Exhaust and emissions
  • Seat belts
  • Steering
  • Windscreen
  • Bonnet catch
  • Horn
  • Number plate
  • Lights
  • Brakes
  • Tyres and wheels
  • Mirrors
  • Doors
  • Seats
  • Suspension
  • Fuel system
  • Body and structure
  • Battery & Wiring
Car engine

How many things can you check on your vehicle regularly to ensure they are safe?

Most good mechanics will advise you to regularly check your vehicle, especially before and after long journeys, just as many people are taught during their driving test. Whilst it may not be possible for you to test aspects of your vehicle at home such as exhaust emissions, suspension, structure, battery and wiring, or fully test your steering – there are some smaller jobs that you can, which could ultimately save a life if you ever happen to have an accident on the road.

You can do your bit to keep you and your vehicle safe on the roads by using the following checklist:

  • Check your tyres for bulges, tread depth and any other issues – we have some other handy blogs about doing this at home which will help
  • Are your doors, handles and locks working correctly?
  • Are your seats in good repair?
  • Are your seat belts working properly?
  • Check the windscreen washer fluid
  • Check your coolant levels
  • Check your oil levels (remember to do this on a flat surface)
  • Are your brakes working correctly?
  • Are all of your lights working? Indicators, headlights, brake lights and full beam and fog lights?
  • Are your windscreens in good repair with no cracks or chips?
  • Are your number plates clean, visible and securely attached?
  • Are your bonnet catch, horn and mirrors undamaged and working correctly?
Oil check

Some other tips for when you are about to embark on a journey in your vehicle and in general include:

  • Remove any obstructions from your rear view and other mirrors
  • Remove any potential obstructions or objects that could stop you from operating the pedals correctly
  • Keep the vehicle clean, even more importantly so you can check for any damage to the vehicle with ease

You should also carry some safety equipment with you in your vehicle in case your vehicle breaks down, including:

  • A warm, waterproof jacket – in case you break down in the cold and rain, in some cases it may not be safe for you to wait in your vehicle for roadside assistance
  • Drink and snacks – again in case you break down far from home and may need to wait hours for help to arrive
  • A spare pair of decent walking shoes or boots, just in case you need to trek somewhere to get help or push your car to safety if you break down
  • A reflective warning triangle
  • First aid kit
  • Details of your insurance policy and break down cover
  • Ensure that your phone is fully charged
  • Pen and paper
  • An umbrella, which acts as not only protection from rain but also sun if you break down on a hot day and cannot wait inside your vehicle
  • High vis vest – you never know when you will break down and this could save your life by helping you be seen by other motorists when on the side of the road

 

Jump start

We hope that these detailed checklists will come in handy and help you to remain as safe as possible on the roads. Remember that the MOT extension ends on 1st August so if your car is due for an MOT on or after this date, you will need to book in quickly to avoid the rush. Contact Queens Park Garage to discuss your vehicle or book an appointment by calling 01202 216104 and speak to a member of our friendly team. You can also book online via our handy website booking form.

Relax whilst we work on your car

You can leave your car with us or wait in our comfortable reception with free wi-fi, free refreshments as well as viewing panel and CCTV so you can watch us while we work on your car.

Please see our Visitors page for safety guidance.

BOOK ME IN! Queens Park Car Garage Bournemouth

Opening Times

Monday 08:00- 18:00

Tuesday 08:00- 18:00

Wednesday 08:00- 18:00

Thursday 08:00- 18:00

Friday 08:00- 18:00

Saturday Closed

Sunday Closed

Bank Holidays Closed

Checkatrade Logo Queens Park Garage Bournemouth