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1. Walk around the car
Look for visibly low or damaged tyres, fresh fluid puddles, broken glass, loose body parts and obstacles around the vehicle.
DIY Car Checks
A few safe, simple checks you can do at home before starting your journey. Park on level ground, switch the engine off and keep clear of hot or moving parts.
Safety first: Never crawl under a car supported only by a jack, open a hot coolant cap, touch high-voltage EV components, or ignore a red oil-pressure or temperature warning.
Before you start the car
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2. Check lights
With help from another person, check headlamps, indicators, brake lamps, reverse lamps and hazard lights. Replace failed bulbs promptly.
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3. Check visibility
Clean the windscreen and mirrors; check wiper blades and washer spray. Do not drive if visibility is unsafe.
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4. Observe the dashboard
After switching ignition on, note warning lamps and whether they go out as described in the owner's manual. Do not ignore red oil-pressure or overheating warnings.
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5. Check visible fluid levels
When the engine is cool, check engine oil and coolant reservoirs only as the owner's manual instructs. Never open a hot cooling system.
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6. Look at the battery
Check for a loose-looking hold-down, swelling, cracks or corrosion from a safe distance. Do not touch damaged terminals; get professional help.
Summer checks
Cooling system
Check the coolant level only when cold and look for visible leaks. If temperature rises or a warning appears, stop safely and switch off.
Air conditioning
Notice whether the cabin cools normally and whether airflow is weak or smells unusual. A technician can check filters, leaks and system performance.
Tyres and battery
Check tyre pressure when cold against the vehicle placard. Heat can expose weak batteries and damaged tyres; arrange testing if starting is slow.
Rainy-season checks
Wipers and washer fluid
Check for streaking, cracks and working washer jets. Replace worn blades before heavy rain.
Tyres and brakes
Check tread and visible damage. If braking pulls, vibrates or makes unusual noises, arrange an inspection.
Leaks and demisting
Look for damp carpets, water in the boot and blocked visible drain areas. Confirm demister and lights work. Never drive through floodwater of uncertain depth.
When to call a professional
- Red oil-pressure or temperature warning
- Brake warning, soft brake pedal or unusual braking
- Fuel smell, smoke, major fluid leak or repeated stalling
- Tyre bulge, exposed cords or severe vibration
- Repeated battery discharge or charging-system warning