A 3-minute lesson from the New York course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
A yearly inspection isn't the only time your car needs attention. As the driver, it's your job to make sure the vehicle is safe. Know the warning signs of trouble with brakes, steering, lights, tires, glass and horn, and get problems fixed before they cause a breakdown or crash.
Know the rule
No one may operate or park a vehicle on public highways unless it has been inspected at least once a year. Follow your owner's manual for routine maintenance and have problems fixed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
Brakes that pull to one side may be wet or need adjustment. If wet, dry them by riding the pedal lightly; if that doesn't help, see a mechanic. Have any change in brake performance checked immediately.
There should not be much free movement in the steering wheel. With power steering, check the fluid level periodically; a whining noise on a sharp turn can signal a problem.
Keep lights clean and free of dirt, snow and ice. Replace broken lenses soon, since they cause dangerous glare, and keep headlights correctly adjusted.
It is illegal to drive on tires with cuts down to the cords, bumps or bulges. Check tire pressure often with a reliable gauge; your owner's manual or a tire store gives the correct pressure.
Your brakes pull to the right just after you drive through a deep puddle. Ride the brake pedal lightly to dry them. If they still pull once dry, have a mechanic check them.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
What is the minimum legal tire tread depth in New York?
1/32 of an inch
4/32 of an inch
1/16 of an inch
2/32 of an inch
Answer: 2/32 of an inch
The law requires tires to have at least 2/32 of an inch of tread.