Understanding Your Car Controls
Before you start driving, you need to know your car inside out. Let's walk through every control you need to understand.
The Three Pedals
Brake Pedal
Slows or stops the car
Accelerator (Gas)
Speeds up the car
Clutch (Manual)
Changes gears
Essential Controls You Must Know
Ignition Button / Ignition
Starts your car's engine. For keyless, keep the fob inside and press the brake while pressing the start button.
Hazard Lights
The triangular buttons - use only when stopped or in emergencies. Amber flashing lights warn others.
Headlight Controls
Usually a dial or stalk on the left. Settings: Off → Parking → Headlights → High Beams
Indicators (Turn Signals)
The stalk on the left. Push up for right, pull down for left. Always use before turning or changing lanes.
Wipers
Usually on the right stalk. Learn the intermittent setting for light rain.
Dashboard Warning Lights
STOP IMMEDIATELY if you see these:
- Engine warning (check engine light) - Something's wrong with the engine
- Oil pressure (oil can icon) - Low oil pressure - stop now!
- Temperature (thermometer in water) - Engine overheating
- Brake warning - Parking brake on or brake fluid low
Get it checked soon:
- TPMS (exclamation in circle) - Tyre pressure low
- Battery - Charging system issue
- Washer fluid - Top up windscreen washer
Quick Checklist
Before every drive, quickly check:
- 1 Seats and mirrors adjusted correctly
- 2 All lights working (walk around the car)
- 3 No warning lights on dashboard
- 4 Fuel level sufficient for your trip
- 5 Windscreen clean, wipers working
Pro Tip:
If you're hiring a car for the first time, spend 2 minutes finding each control before driving. It's better to look than to guess while moving!