Lesson 2.1: Driver Preparation

In this lesson, we will learn about;

• Pre-Drive Tasks
• Seating
• Occupant Protection
• Hand & Arm Position
• Starting Tasks
• Vehicle Operation & Control

Lesson 2.1: Driver Preparation (cont.)

In this lesson, we will learn about;

• Foot & Arm Position
• Foot Pedals & Mirrors
• Symbols & Devices
• Post-Drive Tasks
• Vehicle Maintenance
• In-Car Progress Assessment
• Driving Plan

Some Pre-Start and Pre-Drive procedures should be completed before entering the vehicle, while others should be completed after entering the vehicle.

Novice drivers are eager and excited to begin driving after obtaining their learner’s permit.

It is important to be attentive, focused and prepared for safe travel.

Good driving habits should be established, encouraged and reinforced during this beginning phase.

Pre-Drive Task

Procedures when Approaching a Vehicle

Walk Around the Vehicle and Look for:

• Children
• Kids Playing
• Animals

Walk Around the Vehicle and Look for:

• Debris or Objects
• Fluids and Oil Leaks

Walk Around the Vehicle and look for Damaged and/or Dirty:

• Headlights
• Taillights
• Brake Lights
• Turn Signal

Walk Around the Vehicle and look for Damaged and/or Dirty:

• Windows, Side-view Mirrors
• Front & Rear Windshields
• Unsafe Tires (Bald, Low, Damaged)

Procedures When Entering a Vehicle

• Before unlocking the door, look inside for anyone that shouldn't be there
• Unlock the door and enter the vehicle with keys in hand

Perform these tasks once you've entered the vehicle and are inside:

• Ensure all passengers are inside
• Lock doors
• Adjust seat
• Fasten seat belts

Perform these tasks once you've entered the vehicle and are inside:

• Adjust mirrors
• Adjust headrests
• Place key in ignition
• Check parking brake

Once everyone is inside of the vehicle, lock all doors quickly to help prevent unauthorized entry, and stop accidental door openings while in motion

The driver should sit directly behind the steering wheel to allow for comfortable access to the brake pedal and accelerator.

Adjust your Seat, Mirrors and remember to wear your Seatbelt!

Proper seating will help the driver maintain vehicle control, balance and also provide an optimal line of sight in all directions.

The driver should be in a comfortable, secure and upright position, approximately 10 inches directly behind the steering wheel.

Arms, hands and feet should be properly positioned to operate and access all vehicle controls safely and easily.

A driver may use a wedge-shaped driver’s seat cushion, if needed, to help position their body high enough to safely see over the steering wheel and hood of the car.

The driver should be positioned to safely and easily access and operate the foot controls.

And your arms should be slightly bent, with your hand position on the steering wheel at 9 & 3.

If your vehicle is equipped with a driver- side airbag, avoid sitting too close to the steering wheel, as it may result in serious injury if the airbag deploys.

The airbag should be aimed at the driver’s chest and not the head or neck.

Jaguar's Guide to the Perfect Driving Position

A seatbelt, also known as a safety belt, is a vehicle safety device designed to secure and restrain the driver and passengers in a vehicle, from any sudden or jolting movement that may result from a collision, a hard-brake or a sudden stop.

To protect the occupants from injury, position your seatbelt comfortably across chest and hips.

Lap & Shoulder Restraints

• Back against the vehicle seat
• Knees bent at the edge of the seat
• Lap belt low and on top of the thighs
• Shoulder belt between the shoulder and neck

Adjust the seat back or forward to ensure that the steering wheel is in line with the shoulders If you feel to close or crowded, move the seat back.

If you have to lean forward to hold the wheel, you should move the seat closer.

Your arms should be slightly bent while holding the steering wheel Your overall position should be comfortable

Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times, unless shifting gears on a manual transmission vehicle or turning using the hand-over-hand technique.

There are two steering wheel, hand-positions considered safest.

• 9 & 3
• 10 & 2

Hand Position (9 & 3) Place your left hand at the 9 o’clock position and the right hand at the 3 o’clock position (9 & 3)

Hand Position (10 & 2) Place your left hand at the 10 o’clock position and the right hand at the 2 o’clock position (10 & 2)

The upper arms should be resting near the rib cage.

This arm position optimizes control, reduces fatigue, and prevents injuries from airbag deployment.

This arm position also improves stability by lowering the body’s center of gravity and reduces unintended and excessive steering wheel movement.

This arm position also encourages the driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel and helps reduce back pain often associated with driving long distance.

Proper Hand Position

Foot Pedals Foot pedals control a vehicle's speed, braking, and gear changes.

Proper foot position is an essential technique that helps minimize errors, increases reaction times, helps with smooth vehicle control, and reduces fatigue when traveling long distances.

Foot Pedals Automatic transmission vehicles, have two pedals, one for the accelerator and one for the brakes.

Heel Position

• Keep your right heel on the floor, aligned between the brake and accelerator pedals.
• This allows for quick, smooth pivoting and prevents shifting your entire leg.

Foot Position Legs should be slightly bent and comfortable to allow the driver to easily pivot the right foot to and from the accelerator pedal to the brake pedal.

Foot Pedals The right pedal, usually narrow and vertical, is the accelerator pedal which controls speed.

Foot Pedals The left pedal, usually wider, is the brake pedal used for slowing and stopping.

Ball of the Foot

• Use the ball of your foot, just below the toes, to press the pedals.
• Avoid using just your toes or the arch of your foot to maintain better pressure control and keep your heel on the floor.

Foot Position The dead pedal is the footrest found to the far left where a driver can rest their left foot and to brace themselves.

Left Foot – Dead Pedal

• You should rest your left foot on the "dead pedal" (far left), except when operating a clutch in a manual transmission vehicle.

Preventing Mistakes

• Placing your heel in the center of the pedals reduces the risk of getting your shoe stuck and minimizes the chance of hitting both pedals at once.

Foot Position The right foot should be positioned to operate both pedals efficiently, and to pivot easily from the accelerator to the brake without lifting the heel from the floor.

The Pivot Method

• Keep the heel in one spot and rotate the foot to the left to brake and to the right to accelerate.
• By keeping the heel grounded between the brake and accelerator, drivers can pivot quickly to stop, preventing confusion between pedals.

Foot Pedals The accelerator and brake pedals should be operated by the right foot, while the left foot rests on the fixed foot-rest.

Foot Pedals Manual transmission vehicles have a 3rd pedal on the far left, called a “clutch.” The “clutch” is operated by the left foot and is used to change gears

Foot Pedals

Manual transmission vehicles have (3) foot pedals.

• A. Accelerator
• B. Brake
• C. Clutch

Foot Position If driving a manual transmission vehicle, the left foot is used to operate the clutch pedal.

All vehicles have an inside cabin rearview mirror, and two outside side-view mirrors mounted on the exterior of the doors.

The rearview mirror is used to keep an eye on what is coming up from the rear, while the side-view mirrors cover the area outside of the view of the rearview mirror.

While the side-view mirrors cover the area outside of the view of the rearview mirror and allows you to see rear traffic in adjacent lanes.

Mirrors on vehicles are essential for safety and situational awareness.

Properly adjusted mirrors are a necessary safety precaution for all drivers.

They allow a broader view of the driving environment around your vehicle, and allow you to see vehicles, pedestrians or any potential hazards behind you.

Properly adjusted mirrors also allow you to see traffic in adjacent lanes.

Note that you should adjust your mirrors;

• Prior to driving
• While parked
• And after you have adjusted your seat

Rearview Mirror The rearview mirror is rectangular and is located inside of the vehicle cabin.

The rearview mirror offers a view of the traffic, pedestrians, and hazards behind the vehicle.

The rearview mirror also assists the driver with reversing, backing, parallel parking and with monitoring tailgaters.

Rearview Mirror

• Move your eyes, not head, to look in the rearview mirror
• Adjust the mirror so that it frames the entire rear window

Outside Sideview Mirrors Side mirrors are positioned on the exterior of the vehicle doors.

Side mirrors allow drivers to see the sides of their vehicle and adjacent lanes, which is crucial for lane changes and special awareness.

Sideview mirrors also help with maneuvering into tight spots and when parking.

Outside Sideview Mirrors Some vehicles are equipped with electric mirrors that can be adjusted by the touch of a button, while older models may require the adjustments be made manually.

Adjust the mirror until you can see down the left side of your vehicle.

You should be able to see the side of your vehicle slightly and cars approaching from the rear and in the adjacent lane.

Adjust the mirror until you can see down the right side of your vehicle.

You should be able to see the side of your vehicle slightly and cars approaching from the rear and in the adjacent lane.

Properly adjusted side-view mirrors help reduce blind spots, however, they do not completely eliminate them.

Adjusting Your Mirrors

Alert and Warning Symbols Most new model vehicles come equipped with advanced safety systems comprised of sensors and cameras that are integrated within the car’s computer networks.

The vehicle’s infotainment system, dashboard or instrument cluster will display Vehicle Alert and Warning Symbols, designed to inform the driver of any mechanical problems, such as low tire or oil pressure, engine problems, or low fuel.

The vehicle’s infotainment system or instrument cluster will also display if a feature like Bluetooth or WIFI has been activated.

Warning and Alert symbols vary, so it is important to refer to your vehicle owner's manual for details.

After starting the engine, the vehicle’s dashboard alert and warning symbols will illuminate for a few seconds, and then turn off, unless something is malfunctioning.

Once the engine is started, a driver should minimize distractions and be focused on then driving task.

It is best to turn on, set and adjust vehicle accessories such as defrosters, heat or A/C system, navigation or music, prior to driving.

Post-Drive Tasks ensure vehicle safety and security after arriving at your destination and parking.

Post-Drive Tasks

• Shift the vehicle to Park (P)
• Engage the hand or foot brake
• Raise the windows
• Turn off all electronic accessories

Post-Drive Tasks Continued

• Turn off the vehicle
• Check surroundings
• Exit carefully
• Lock all doors
• Secure personal belongings
• Engage vehicle anti-theft alarm

Vehicles have an owner’s manual is a comprehensive guide that provides important information about a vehicle’s operation, its safety features and maintenance schedule.

If your vehicle does not have an owners manual, check online with the manufacturer for a downloadable or digital copy.

Some newer model vehicles will have a digital version of the Owner’s Manual embedded into the vehicle’s infotainment center.

Some newer model vehicles will have a digital version of the Owner’s Manual embedded into the vehicle’s infotainment center.

Aside from familiarizing yourself with your vehicle’s operation, safety and comfort features, it is also important to understand and follow the manufacturer’s recommended vehicle service and maintenance schedule.

Following the recommended service and maintenance schedule keeps the vehicle in proper working condition and helps reduce the likelihood of breakdown by identifying potential mechanical problems.

Identifying potential mechanical problems in advance, improves the life expectancy of the vehicle, ensures that the vehicle is safe to operate and helps minimize costly repairs.

Regular service visits contribute to a vehicle’s dependability, safety and help reduce engine emissions...a win-win for your safety, your vehicle and the environment.

Some maintenance checks can be performed at home, but it is recommended that you seek the advice of a certified professional for the more complicated ones.

TIRES are the only contact point between a vehicle and the road, directly affecting handling and control.

Air pressure supports the car's load, making them crucial for both performance and comfort.

TIRES help manage in accelerating, steering, and braking, which directly impact stopping distance, fuel economy, and passenger comfort.

Properly maintained tires are vital to the safe operation of a vehicle.

They provide critical handling, braking, and stability for the vehicle, which help minimize blowouts and hydroplaning.

Over or Under inflated tires greatly increase the odds of a blow-out, which can result in loss of vehicle control and lead to a crash.

We recommend checking your tire pressure at home at least once a month, or taking it to a tire shop for proper inspection and service.

Keep in mind that air expands when it’s hot out, while air & tires contract during the cold season.

As part of your pre-drive tasks, check your tires for foreign objects that increase the odds of a blow-out which may also lead to a crash.

Preventative maintenance, recommends that you rotate and balance your vehicle tires every 5000 - 7500 Miles or every 6 months.

Consistent rotation ensures even tread wear, and help extends tire life and improves safety.

Always consult your owner's manual for specific manufacturer recommendations.

Weekly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Follow the recommended Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) for your vehicle's tires.

Weekly Maintenance Self-Checks

• PSI can be found on a sticker or placard placed on door or door frame and in the vehicle's owner's manual

Weekly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Use a tire gauge to check each tire's air pressure (PSI)
• Look for bald spots, uneven tread wear, metal fragments or nails lodged into the tires

Weekly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Wiper blades & Washer fluid
• Headlights & Tail lights
• Brake lights
• Turn signals
• Heating and Air Conditioner system
• Safety warning lamps

Weekly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Engine oil level (dipstick)
• Brake fluid level
• Engine Coolant Level
• All exterior and interior lights
• Seat Belts
• Ensure oil filler cap is secure

Semi-yearly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Spare Tire Air pressure (PSI)
• Battery Connections
• Parking Brake
• Transmission Fluid levels

Semi-yearly Maintenance Self-Checks

• Power Steering fluid levels
• Air and Cabin Filters
• Drive Belt damage
• Hinges, Latches, Door Weather Strips and Locks

Professional Services Professional services are performed by certified mechanics or other qualified professionals to ensure the long-term operation and safety of a vehicle.

Professional Services Include

• Oil Change
• Oil Filter replacement
• Tire Rotation and Balance

Scheduled professional services will vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make and model.

In most vehicles, professional services like oil changes and tire rotations, are typically performed every 3000-5000 miles.

However, in some newer vehicles, professional services like oil changes may not be required for up to 7500-10,000 miles.

It is always best to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to verify when to schedule a service.

Professional Service – 15,000 Miles Some professional services like a brake system’s check, are typically performed every 15,000 miles.

Brake System Check:

• Pads
• Shoes
• Rotors
• Drums
• Hoses, etc…

Professional Service – 15,000 Miles

• Steering and Suspension
• Engine Cooling System
• Automatic Transmission Fluid Levels

Professional Service – 30,000 Miles

• Automatic Transmission Service
• Radiator Flush
• Coolant Replacement
• Fuel Filter Replacement
• Exhaust System
• Drive Belts