Installation lap

An installation lap is a slow-speed lap that drivers complete to check that their race car's basic systems are working properly before racing or practice begins.

Think of an installation lap like a test drive you might take after getting your car serviced. The driver leaves the pit area, drives around the track at moderate speed, and returns to check that everything feels right. They're not trying to go fast or set quick lap times - they just want to make sure the car is safe and ready.

During this system check lap, drivers test essential components like the brakes, steering, throttle response, and gear changes. They also warm up the tires and get a feel for how the car handles. If something doesn't feel right, they can return to the pits immediately for repairs.

Installation laps typically happen at the start of practice sessions, especially after the team has made changes to the car overnight or between sessions. Teams might replace parts, adjust settings, or rebuild sections of the car, so an installation lap confirms everything is working correctly after these modifications.

You'll also see installation laps before qualifying sessions or races. Even if the car worked perfectly earlier, teams want to double-check all systems one more time before the competitive action begins. This is particularly important in Formula 1, where cars are highly complex and even small problems can end a driver's race.

The lap serves a safety purpose too. By testing the car's systems at lower speeds first, drivers can identify potential problems before they become dangerous at racing speeds. If the brakes feel weak or the steering seems loose during an installation lap, the team can fix these issues before the driver pushes the car to its limits.

Most installation laps are completed alone on track, away from other cars, allowing drivers to focus entirely on how their vehicle feels and performs.