Know Your Car

You may have just turned 18 or it may be your first car after your big break into the corporate world. It doesn't really matter when you buy your car, but you always remember the first time you got behind the wheel of a car. It's a moment of sheer freedom from the world of public transport, to a space of your own. For those who are experts then, this is not the space for you. This article is for the novices who haven't yet tasted first blood.

When you get into the car, the first thing you notice is a big wheel right in front of you a.k.a the steering wheel. Naturally, you know what to do with it. It is the steering wheel that helps you get around. You will also notice something sticking out of your car to the left, no, it isn't abnormal, but it's just the gear-lever. The digits in front of you, behind the steering wheel form the part of the instrument cluster, which basically tells you what speed you are going at and other useless information like the kilometres done, oil temperature and in some cases tyre pressure, Distance to empty et al.

Before you fire up the car and take it out for a spin, there are a few checks that are mandatory. In fact, they are so mandatory that they ought to be habitual. To begin with;

Know your pedals: In a car with manual transmission, there will be three pedals which you will have to operate by using your feet. The one on the extreme left is the clutch, the one to its right, the brake and the one after that, the accelerator. To put it simply, the accelerator allows you to move, brake to stop and the clutch to change gears.

Seating: Cars of today allow you to adjust your driving position and the ideal one is which allows you to have a clear view of the road while also maintaining enough leg room for you to operate the pedals. Keep the back rest straight so that you have a good driving position.

Mirror Check: Nope, this is not specifically for women, but it is the most important task of the lot. The side-view mirrors on each side need to be adjusted along with the rear view mirror which sits on top. Once you have zeroed down on your driving position, adjust the mirrors accordingly. The side mirrors need to be adjusted in a way that most part of the road and 3/4th of your car is visible. Keeping your car in the viewing grid helps in gauging the distance between your vehicle and the one right behind you. It directly translates into better judgement for overtaking manoeuvres.

Buckle up: Once you've got all that sorted, put on your seatbelt. This is the most important exercise of all. Wear it not because it is mandatory but for your own safety.

Having done all this, put the key into ignition and fire up the engine. Slowly depress the clutch and make sure that it goes all the way to the back. Engage it into first gear and slowly release the clutch. Once you've done this, the car will start moving and that's how the ride begins.

It's important to understand here, that safety comes first. Watch the road and you will have a safe drive.