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Basics (1–4)6 min read

Safety Checks: FLOWER Before You Drive

Before every drive, carry out essential safety checks using the FLOWER acronym. These two-minute checks could prevent a breakdown, an accident, or a fine.

The full guide

Before every drive, carry out a quick safety check using the FLOWER acronym: Fuel — enough for your journey? Lights — all working including brake lights and indicators? Oil — between the min and max marks on the dipstick? Water — coolant and windscreen washer fluid topped up? Electrics — battery terminals clean, warning lights off after startup? Rubber — tyres have at least 1.6mm tread depth, no cuts or bulges, and correct pressure? These checks take two minutes and could prevent a breakdown, an accident, or a fine. The examiner may ask you to demonstrate opening the bonnet and checking oil or coolant levels during the 'show me, tell me' part of the test. You should also be confident in checking tyre tread depth and all fluid levels without assistance.

Common faults

  • Driving with a brake light out.
  • Not checking tyre tread depth regularly.
  • Ignoring dashboard warning lights.
  • Running low on fuel before a long journey.
  • Not topping up windscreen washer fluid.
  • Forgetting to check tyre pressures monthly.

What the examiner looks for

  • Ability to open the bonnet safely.
  • Knowledge of how to check oil level.
  • Understanding of minimum tread depth (1.6mm).
  • Awareness of warning light meanings.
  • Regular pre-drive safety habits.
  • Correct use of the dipstick and fluid reservoirs.

Quick tips

  1. 1Do the FLOWER check every week, not just before the test.
  2. 2Keep a tyre pressure gauge in the glovebox.
  3. 3Learn where the bonnet release is on your car.
  4. 4Check lights by reflecting off a wall or garage door.
  5. 5Never ignore a persistent warning light — get it checked.

Common questions about safety checks: flower before you drive

What does FLOWER stand for?
FLOWER is a memory aid for pre-drive safety checks: Fuel, Lights, Oil, Water, Electrics, Rubber. Each letter reminds you of an essential check to carry out before starting your journey. It takes less than two minutes but makes a significant safety difference.
How often should I check my tyre pressures?
At least once a month and before long journeys. Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption, reduce grip, and are more likely to overheat and fail at speed. Check pressures when the tyres are cold for an accurate reading.
What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth?
1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference. Many safety experts recommend replacing tyres at 3mm for better wet-weather performance. You can use a 20p coin as a quick check.
Can I fail my test for a brake light being out?
Yes. If the examiner notices a brake light is not working, the test will not go ahead. Check all lights before every lesson and especially on test day. This falls under the 'show me' question about lights.
What should I do if a warning light comes on during my test?
Tell the examiner immediately. Depending on the light, the examiner may decide to continue or terminate the test. A red warning light usually means stop safely as soon as possible. Amber lights suggest caution and should be checked soon.
How do I check the engine oil level?
Park on level ground, wait for the engine to cool, open the bonnet, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert fully, then remove again. The oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Top up if below the minimum mark.

Ready to put this into practice?

These guides are a great starting point, but nothing replaces working with a DVSA-approved instructor who can give you real-time feedback.

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Safety Checks: FLOWER Before You Drive | The DTC