Basic Automotive Skills Every New Driver Should Know
Learning to drive a car is about more than the mechanics of being behind the wheel—it’s also about learning to maintain your vehicle properly. Along with driving lessons from a quality driving school, there are a few survival skills that driving students should take the time to learn well. Take a look at the following points to see a few of the basic tasks every new driver should be able to perform:
- Pump Gas Safely
It may seem simple, but learning to pump gas safely is a skill that even many experienced drivers don’t practice today. Ask an experienced driver to demonstrate the proper method for adding fuel to your car. Never pump gas while the vehicle engine in running. Avoid using your cell phone while at the pump, and don’t enter or exit the vehicle while fueling. You want to avoid any potential source of electricity that can present a danger of ignition. Lastly, when the auto shutoff engages at the pump, do not attempt to top off your tank. Overfilling your gas tank can damage components of your exhaust.
- Check Tire Pressure
New drivers should learn how to check and maintain the appropriate air pressure in their tires. Carry a digital tire pressure gauge in your glove box and become familiar with its use. Make a habit of checking your tire pressure before you get on the road, and practice inflating your tires to their proper pressure.
A great way to make your life easier as a new driver is to be prepared for roadside mishaps. You may find yourself in a situation where you need to jumpstart your car in a parking lot or change a flat on the side of the road. These essential skills can help you avoid becoming stranded.
Greg’s Driving School helps new drivers get on the road every day with driver’s education classes. We have 20 years of experience teaching student drivers the skills they need to be successful behind the wheel. Visit our website to explore our available classes, or call us at (301) 703-9868 for more information.
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