Use these checklists to practice the pre-trip inspection until it becomes second nature. Remember to say every check out loud during your test.
Exterior Inspection Checklist
(Start at the front of the vehicle and move in one direction, e.g., clockwise)
1. Under the Bonnet:
- [ ] Engine Oil: Check dipstick, confirm level is correct.
- [ ] Coolant: Check reservoir, confirm level is correct.
- [ ] Brake Fluid: Check reservoir, confirm level is correct.
- [ ] Windscreen Water: Check reservoir, confirm level is correct.
- [ ] Belts & Pipes: Check for cracks, damage, and security.
- [ ] Leaks: Check for any visible leaks in the engine bay.
2. Front of Vehicle:
- [ ] Underneath: Check for any leaks.
- [ ] Lights: Headlights & indicators are secure, not damaged, clean.
- [ ] Windscreen: Secure and not cracked.
- [ ] Licence Disc: Valid and visible.
3. Right Side of Vehicle:
- [ ] Front Right Tyre: Pressure, damage, tread, wheel nuts.
- [ ] Mirror & Indicator: Secure and not damaged.
- [ ] Bodywork: Secure.
- [ ] Fuel Cap: Secure.
- [ ] Rear Right Tyre: Pressure, damage, tread, wheel nuts.
4. Rear of Vehicle:
- [ ] Underneath: Check for any leaks.
- [ ] Lights & Reflectors: Secure, not damaged, clean.
- [ ] Rear Window: Secure and not cracked.
- [ ] Boot: Closed properly.
5. Left Side of Vehicle:
- [ ] Rear Left Tyre: Pressure, damage, tread, wheel nuts.
- [ ] Bodywork: Secure.
- [ ] Mirror & Indicator: Secure and not damaged.
- [ ] Front Left Tyre: Pressure, damage, tread, wheel nuts.
Interior Inspection Checklist (Cockpit Drill)
(Perform these checks from the driver’s seat before starting the engine)
Pre-Start Checks:
- [ ] Door: Closed securely.
- [ ] Handbrake: Applied firmly.
- [ ] Seat: Adjusted correctly.
- [ ] Steering Wheel: Adjusted correctly.
- [ ] Mirrors: Interior and exterior mirrors adjusted.
- [ ] Seatbelt: Fastened and secure.
Start the Engine:
- [ ] Gear Lever: Confirm it is in Neutral.
- [ ] Start the vehicle.
Post-Start Checks:
- [ ] Instrument Panel: Check that all warning lights have turned off.
- [ ] Horn: Test with a short tap.
- [ ] Wipers: Test the wipers are working.
- [ ] Steering: Check for excessive free play.