40 | AUGUST 2020
Motoring
Read online at www.proinstaller.co.uk
VAN DRIVERS URGED
TO CHECK VEHICLES
Van drivers are being urged to check their
vehicles are in top condition before they
head out on the roads and back to work.
The team at LeaseVan.co.uk are
encouraging them to give their van a post
lockdown check before they get back behind
the wheel, advising: “If your van has
been parked up with very few miles covered
then it’s important to give it a good
check before you head out on the road.
“We’ve detailed the basic points like
checking tyres, lights and other essentials
but if anything concerns you or doesn’t
seem to be running right, it’s worth getting
it checked out by a mechanic.
“If your van is key to your business, it’s
worth doing these checks as often as once
a week to make sure you pick up on any
problems before they become too costly.”
Check your tyres
Tyres need to be checked regularly for
wear and tear. Keep an eye out for any
cuts and bulges in the sidewalls, check
wheel nuts are secure, tyre pressure is
correct and the tyre has enough tread. Remember,
UK law requires a minimum
tread of 1.6mm with 3mm recommended
for optimal
performance.
Under the bonnet
It’s worth trying to check the engine
weekly. Check the oil levels and make
sure you have the optimum levels of fluids
like coolants, power steering fluid and
brake fluid. Also keep an eye on screenwash
levels.
Doors
Often overlooked, but make sure rear
doors are oiled often and open as far as
they’re supposed to. If you have sliding
doors, make sure they’re aligned on the
runners.
Van lights
It easy to forget to check the lights and
drivers often only spot a problem when
someone else tells them about it. But
failing to make sure they’re functioning
as they should, could land you in trouble.
Check by turning them all on and walking
round the van. If there’s a problem, get it
checked out. Also keep lights clean and
dust free for good visibility.
Windscreen maintenance
Good visibility is a must. Keep windscreen
fluid levels topped up and the
washers are pointing to the windscreen. If
the wipers leave streaks or squeak, then
they need changing. Keep a look out for
any chips or cracks in the windscreen
too.
Inside the van
Remember to check brakes, steering, indicators,
seat belts and everything else you
find inside the van. If your van has been
stationary for a few months, it’s important
to make sure these basics are all in good
working order.
Keep it clean
Your van is your way of promoting
your business so think about how you
want to look to potential customers.
Keep it clean – this will improve the
image you portray and will protect the
paintwork. Also remember to keep it
tidy inside.