What should you check after starting your engine to ensure it is functioning properly?

After starting your engine, it's essential to check the instruments and warning lights. This is a crucial step because the dashboard provides immediate feedback on the vehicle's condition. Warning lights can indicate potential issues, such as low oil pressure, overheating, or problems with the battery or brakes. By monitoring these instruments right after starting the engine, you can identify any warnings that might require immediate attention, ensuring that your vehicle is in safe operating condition before you drive.

While checking steering responsiveness is important for overall vehicle handling, it is usually assessed while driving or in a controlled environment rather than immediately following engine start-up. Checking headlight brightness is a good practice, but it typically relates more to visibility than engine function and should also be done under driving conditions. Tire pressure, while vital for safety and performance, is generally checked before starting the engine and is not directly related to the immediate functioning of the engine itself.