Our step by step guide
Inside the Van
1. Inside the van
See a video on checking inside the van here
1.1 Brakes
- Check that the:
- foot or service brake works correctly and doesn’t have any excessive travel
- hand or parking brake works correctly and doesn’t have any excessive travel
1.2 Horn and steering
Check that the:
- horn control is easily accessible from driver’s seat
- horn works when its control is operated
- steering has no excessive play
1.3 Lights
Check that:
- all lights and indicators work correctly
- all lenses are present, clean and are the right colour
- stop lamps come on when the service brake is applied and go out when released
- marker lights are present and work
- all dashboard warning lamps work correctly, including:
- automatic braking system (ABS)
- airbags – supplemental restraint system (SRS)
- electronic positioning system (EPS)
- full beam headlamp warning lamp
- parking brake warning lamp
1.4 Mirrors and glass
Check that:
- all mirrors that should be there are properly aligned and secure
- your view of the road in all directions isn’t obscured by damaged or discoloured glass, or obstructions, eg stickers
1.5 Seats and seat belts
Check that:
- seats are secure
- seat belts operate correctly and are free from cuts and damage
1.6 Washers and wipers
Check that:
- wipers move continually when switched on
- wiper blades aren’t so deteriorated that they don’t clear the windscreen effectively when used with washers
- washers point at the windscreen and are operational
- washer fluid is topped up
Outside the Van
2. Outside the van
See a video on checking outside the van here
2.1 Battery
Check that the:
- battery is held securely in place by the correct means and not cables
- battery is not leaking
2.2 Fluids, fuel and oil
Check that:
- the brake fluid, engine coolant, engine oil, power steering fluid, wind screen washer fluid and water levels are correct
- the fuel filler cap is securely fitted
- there are no brake fluid, power steering fluid and water leaks by looking for puddles on the ground – if leaks are detected, trace the cause
With the engine on, check underneath the van for any fuel and oil leaks – look for puddles on the ground.
2.3 Bodywork and doors
Check that:
- all doors shut properly and are secure when closed
- there isn’t any damage or sharp edges
- no body panels are loose or in danger of falling off
2.4 Exhaust
Check that the exhaust doesn’t emit excessive amounts of smoke.
2.5 Tyres and wheels
Check as much of your tyres and wheels as you can see. There must be:
- a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm
- sufficient inflation of each tyre
- no deep cuts in the sidewall
- no cord visible anywhere on the tyre
- no missing or insecure wheel-nuts
You can get 3 penalty points on your licence for each tyre that isn’t safe and legal.
2.6 Load
Check that:
- any load is adequately secured
- the van doors have an effective locking device
2.7 Tow bars and tail lifts
Check that the:
- tow bar is secure and any trailer is correctly and securely attached, with all electrical connections working correctly
- tail lift is secure and free from damage, functions correctly and the electrics are working correctly
