by Gabrielle DeSantis

The practical on-the-road driving test is the last hurdle before obtaining a driver’s license. The purpose of this test is to determine whether you can drive confidently while observing car safety. It’s essential to prepare for the test just as you would with other exams. Here’s a look at what a driver’s license test entails and common mistakes to avoid. 

What to expect during a driver’s license test

Before obtaining a driver’s license, you’ll be expected to drive a vehicle while an examiner evaluates your ability to control the vehicle in different driving situations. Thus, you should prepare to get tested on various driving skills. 

These include navigating corners, parallel parking, backing up, driving through intersections, three-point turns, entering and exiting highways, and changing lanes. While demonstrating these skills to the examiner, he/she will also observe if you’re handling the vehicle safely and lawfully.

The driving portion of the test also entails testing your eyesight. For instance, the examiner may require you to read the registration number of a vehicle parked 20 meters ahead of you. If you can’t do that, you’ll certainly fail the driver’s test. 

Common driving test mistakes that may make you fail

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According to the DMV, there are so many mistakes you can make when you get behind the wheel during a road test. Even so, it’s best to remember that since you’re not a qualified driver, the examiner doesn’t expect you to be perfect. Moreover, you can retake the test if you fail the first time out. That said, here are some common driving mistakes that could make you fail a driver’s test, according to Aceable. 

Whether you’re the driver or passenger, the rule of thumb is to fasten your seatbelt after entering a vehicle. Unfortunately, some students fail to buckle up during their driver’s test, which could be attributed to anxiety, fear, or nervousness. You’ll automatically fail a driver’s license if you forget to buckle up.  

During a driver’s license test, you’ll undoubtedly want to impress the examiner. Some students go to the extent of keeping their eyes on the road ahead while forgetting to check the rear-view and side mirrors regularly. These mirrors are there to ensure you drive safely, and failure to use them could make you fail the examination. 

At stop signs, you need to bring a vehicle to a complete halt. Making an incomplete stop at stop signs is a traffic offense that could attract fines of up to $500. During your test, it’s best to observe stop signs and red lights. Failure to do so means you’ll automatically fail the test. In this regard, always keep your foot on the brake pedal for a few moments until the vehicle stops completely. 

Driving unnecessarily fast is among the mistakes that many road test students fall victim to. It’s a no-brainer that overspeeding is a major cause of fatal crashes. Often, student drivers don’t surpass speed limits due to recklessness, but instead, out of nervousness and anxiety. Driving over the stipulated speed limit will automatically result in a fail during your examination. 

During a driving test, you should anticipate pedestrians because they have the right of way. Failing to yield to pedestrians or paying attention to crosswalks when turning increases the possibility of failing a driving test. 

What you can take away from this

Although a driving test takes an average of 30-40 minutes, it’s the most essential step before obtaining your driver’s license. Preparing for the test also entails knowing the common mistakes that could make you fail. So, if you’re preparing to get out there for your own test, now you’re a bit more prepared than before!

The post The Most Common Driving Test Mistakes That Will Make You Fail appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Mercedes has recalled more than 12,300 Mercedes-Benz models due to a faulty front seat position switch. A faulty electrical contact within the switch might prevent driver and passenger seat belt force limiters and airbags from activating correctly during an accident. Mercedes-Benz began an investigation in 2020 based on a report from a supplier about seat and airbag problems.

Doubling up with customer complaints, the auto manufacturer saw it important to recall the Mercedes-Benz models affected. According to Consumer Reports, the faulty models don’t comply with the requirements of the FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) no. 208, “Occupant Crash Protection,” according to the NHTSA.

If the seat belt doesn’t fully retract due to the faulty switch, the occupant might find it hard and an inconvenience to wear it, which increases the risk of injury in the event of a car crash.

The faulty front seat switches 

As noted by Car Complaints, the seat position switch signal does not function properly or is totally missing. This prevents the airbag limiter and the seat retraction and activation system from functioning as per the manufacturer’s specifications.  

According to Cars.com, the models affected include the 2021 E350, E450, E450 Wagon, and E63S AMG. The well-acclaimed auto manufacturer is also recalling the 2020 E63S AMG Wagon and the 2020-2021 E53 AMG models. In these models, the passenger seat limiter is positioned too close to the airbag. This may prevent the airbag from activating correctly. 

Mercedes-Benz is also recalling some 2021 C-Class, GLC, CLS, Convertible, and G-Class vehicles. Customers who want to know whether their vehicles are affected can check the Mercedes-Benz USA. In these models, a faulty electrical component within the seat position switch can disrupt the normal deployment of driver and passenger airbags during a crash. 

Previous Mercedes-Benz recalls

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This won’t be the first time that Mercedes-Benz recalls some of its models. In the most recent recall, some Benz models a potential communication software failure. The software design might fail to communicate the vehicle’s correct location for the eCall system during a crash. This might result in the first aid responders going to the wrong location, increasing the risk of further injury after a crash.

As Car Complaints puts it, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models were recalled due to a cluster issue. Some of the cars couldn’t adjust the multifunctional display in the instrument cluster. The vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of FMVSS number 101, “Control and Displays,” and the display might appear too bright, hindering the driver’s vision and increasing the risk of crashing.

Moreover, the 2019-2020 Mercedes Benz and Freightliner Sprinters were recalled due to a fuel line problem. The fuel line clamps could loosen, leading to a fuel leak that can increase fire risk.

The latest recall for Mercedes-Benz

In December 2020, a supplier filed a report concerning the possible production problems. The supplier that a batch of seat position switches might have problems with the solder. Mercedes-Benz launched investigations to look into the matter.

In some cars, the seat position switch signal was missing or incorrect, resulting in the seat belt force limiter and airbags fail to activate when needed. The recall is set to begin on May 31, 2021. Owners of these models are to return the cars to the dealership to replace the seat position switches.

What owners can do

Mercedes-Benz will notify owners and dealers of the problem and replace the seat position switches for free. If you think your car might have that problem, you can contact Mercedes customer service for more information or check if your car has a recall on MBUSA. You can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline or visit SafeCar.gov. 

The post Over 12,000 Mercedes-Benz Models Recalled for Seat Problem appeared first on MotorBiscuit.