Vehicle Safety Checks Flashcards

What are the legal requirements for vehicle lighting in Ireland regarding rear fog lights?

Answer: Use rear fog lights only when visibility is seriously reduced — not in normal rain or mist

Rear fog lights must only be used when visibility is seriously reduced (generally below 100 metres). Using them in normal conditions dazzles following drivers and hides your brake lights.

What is the purpose of the vehicle's battery and what warning does a battery symbol on the dashboard indicate?

Answer: The battery stores electrical charge — the warning light indicates the charging system has a fault

The battery warning light usually indicates a fault with the charging system (alternator) rather than the battery itself. The battery may drain quickly. Have the system checked promptly.

What is the legal minimum requirement for vehicle insurance in Ireland?

Answer: Third party insurance as a minimum — covering injury or damage caused to others

The legal minimum vehicle insurance in Ireland is third party cover, which pays for injury or damage you cause to other people and their property. It does not cover your own vehicle or injuries.

How should you clean a misted or fogged windscreen quickly while driving?

Answer: Use the heater directed at the screen with the air conditioning (A/C) on to demist quickly

The fastest way to clear an internal mist is to use the vehicle's heater/blower directed at the screen, with the air conditioning on. A/C dehumidifies the air and removes moisture rapidly.

What does the oil pressure warning light (usually red) indicate?

Answer: Critically low oil pressure — stop immediately and switch off the engine

A red oil pressure warning light means critically low oil pressure — the engine may be damaged very quickly if you continue driving. Stop immediately, switch off the engine, and investigate.

What should a driver check about their load before setting off?

Answer: That it is secure, within the vehicle's load capacity, and does not obstruct vision or protrude dangerously

All loads must be properly secured so they cannot shift or fall. Overloading affects braking and handling. Loads that obstruct the driver's vision or protrude unsafely are illegal.