All control questions / Visibility

Control questions about visibility

Wipers, mirrors, windscreen and misting: how to make sure you can see clearly.

1. How do you check that the wipers work?

   I turn on the washer and wipers and check that they clear the water evenly without streaks, and that the blades aren't cracked.

   Worn wiper blades leave streaks and give poor visibility, especially in rain and darkness. Replace the blades when they are cracked or hard.

   How to show it on the car:

   1. Switch on the wipers and use the washer.
   2. Check that the windscreen comes clean without streaks.
   3. Lift the wiper blades and look for cracks and wear in the rubber.

2. How do you check that the mirrors are in order?

   I settle into the seat and adjust the mirrors so I can see behind and to the sides. The glass must not be cracked.

   Adjust the mirrors before you drive so they fit you. You still need to look over your shoulder, but the mirrors give you the overview behind you.

   How to show it on the car:

   1. Adjust the seat first.
   2. Adjust the rear-view mirror so you see the whole rear window.
   3. Adjust the side mirrors so you can just see the side of the car.

3. How do you check the windscreen?

   I check that it is clean and free of cracks or chips in the driver's field of view, so visibility isn't reduced.

   Cracks and chips in the driver's field of view can reduce visibility and weaken the glass. Small chips can often be repaired before they turn into cracks.

   How to show it on the car:

   1. Look over the windscreen from both inside and outside.
   2. Look for cracks and chips, especially in the area in front of the driver.

4. How do you make sure the windows don't fog up while driving?

   I turn on the fan towards the windscreen and check that the fog clears. Air conditioning removes the moisture faster.

   You must have a clear view all the way around. The fan and air conditioning remove moisture from the windows so they don't fog up while you drive.

   How to show it on the car:

   1. Select the fan towards the windscreen – the symbol with a curved window.
   2. Switch on the air conditioning if the car has it.
   3. Check that the windscreen clears.

5. How do you check that the heated rear window works?

   Switch on the heated rear window and feel the glass from inside – the heating wires should become warm after a short while.

   The heated rear window removes condensation and ice from the rear window, so you can see through the rear-view mirror. It has a button with a window symbol. Check that the heating wires are not damaged – a broken wire won't heat that area.

   How to show it on the car:

   1. Show where the heated rear window button is.
   2. Switch it on, and after a moment, feel that the glass becomes warm along the heating wires.