A car in poor repair can fail you when you need it most. NC law sets minimum standards for lights, brakes, tires, horn and muffler, and you should check them regularly.
Lighting standards
| Equipment | Standard |
|---|---|
| High beams | See a person 200 feet away |
| Low beams | See a person 75 feet away |
| Taillights | Red, visible at least 500 feet |
| License plate light | White; numbers visible at least 50 feet |
| Brake/turn lights (since 1955) | Red or amber; visible 100 feet in daylight |
Know the rule
Vibration can knock headlights out of adjustment, and overloading the rear tilts the front up, causing glare for oncoming drivers. Check and adjust headlights routinely.
Handbook p. 34 ↗Know the rule
Adjust mirrors before driving: the rear-view shows directly behind; side mirrors show left and right rear and should barely reflect the side of the car.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Brakes:
- Must be able to control, stop and hold the vehicle
- Should have two separate means of applying the brakes
- Fully pressed pedal must stay at least one-third of its original distance from the floor
- A pedal that slowly sinks means check the hydraulic system
- Squeaking brakes can signal a problem; have them checked
Know the rule
With anti-lock brakes (ABS), brake hard and keep firm, steady pressure. Pumping or releasing reduces ABS effectiveness.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
Tires are unsafe if cut, cracked or worn to expose the cord, or with visible tread separation, chunking, or less than 1/16-inch tread depth.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
Check tire pressure at least once a month, preferably when tires are cool. Underinflation wears tires faster and raises blowout risk; overinflation reduces traction.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
Every vehicle needs a working horn heard at least 200 feet away, without an unreasonably loud or harsh sound. Only police and emergency vehicles may have emergency lights or sirens.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
Every vehicle must have a working muffler. An exhaust leak can let deadly carbon monoxide in, so keep a window open about one inch while traveling.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Know the rule
A vehicle that sways, leans heavily in turns or keeps bouncing may have a suspension problem, which can make you lose control.
Handbook p. 35 ↗Drive green:
- Every five miles over 60 mph can cost up to 30 cents more a gallon
- Abrupt starts and hard stops can raise fuel use by 40%
- Under 40 mph roll down windows; over 40 mph use AC
- Clogged air filters can cut mileage by 10%
- A tight fuel cap can prevent leaking up to 30 gallons a year
Put it into practice
Your brake pedal sinks slowly toward the floor while you wait at a light. That's a sign the hydraulic system needs checking. Get it inspected before it fails.