As governments across the Middle East are easing lockdowns, motorists are getting ready to hit the roads. But wait! Are your vehicles fully prepared for the tough job ahead? The leading German tire and technology firm, Continental is going to initiate the ‘Moving Forward’ Campaign, which guides motorists on making their journeys safe and enjoyable. Today, we will discuss the top 7 Continental’s safety tips for post-COVID-19 lockdown driving. These Continental’s safety tips are part of their Vision Zero plan, which is aimed at zero fatalities, zero injuries, and zero accidents across the world. Tire Inspection: As most of us have not been using our vehicles during the lockdown, it is obvious they were staying at the same place for over a month. This situation would have created flat spots on the tires, which need your immediate attention. Besides, you also need to keep an eye on bulges, cracks, or blisters before you move your car out on the road. If you have spotted any of the issues we have just mentioned, consult with a specialist at the tire shop. Tire Pressure: We all should inspect tire pressure every two to four weeks but with cars sitting idle for a month or so, we should not start our journeys without properly inflating the tires. Check your vehicle’s suggested tire pressure at the driver’s doorpost. Too low or too high pressure can be extremely dangerous on the road, so do not get lazy on it. Battery Check: Continental’s safety tips do not end at the tires, the safety expert also guides us on battery check. With cars parked at the garage for a long time, the batteries might have lost their charge and may not have the power to ignite the engine. If this happens, you first have to take the battery to a workshop for recharging and see if it still has the juice to fulfill its job. If not, you should replace it. If the car starts, do not switch it off until you move the car around a little. It will allow the engine to charge the battery.
Brake Check: The lack of movement does not only damage the tires and the battery, the brakes are equally at risk as well. Start the car, drive it slowly, and apply the brakes. If the brake sounds noisy and loose, better visit your mechanic for inspection and repair. Fluid and Lubricant Levels Check: A car cannot run properly without the right amount of fluids and lubricants. Engine oil, transmission oil, brake oil, steering oil and coolant, all must be filled up to the required level. A stationary vehicle can lead to damage to specific components, which may result in spills and leaks. When these issues arise, you can experience engine failure, brake failure, or even transmission failure. Check levels of all the fluids and lubricants and top them up to the required level before you hit the road. Wipers Check: With the car standing in your garage for a long time means dirt is now settled on the windscreen wipers, possibly spoiling them and minimizing their efficiency. Clean the wipers as well as the windscreen before you take your car out. Also, make sure to refill your windshield washer fluid. Spare tire Check: Not only the car’s normal tires, but you must also inspect the spare tires for any damage and air pressure loss. In case, you lose one tire during a drive, the spare tire will save you from a lot of trouble and hassle.
That’s it, the Continental’s safety tips for post-COVID-19 lockdown driving. The company will initiate the Moving Forward Campaign on its social networks from June 7th. In this regard, Continental has also joined hands with the Middle East automotive authority Mr. Mawater, and developed a video on car safety. Source and Image: Continental
