Weekly Walk-Around Checks for Cars and Scooters

Five minutes once a week catches most problems before they become breakdowns. You do not need tools, just attention.

Tyres

Tyres are the only contact between the vehicle and the road. Look for cuts, bulges and objects in the tread, and check pressures when the tyres are cold, using the figures in your owner's manual or on the label on the vehicle.

Lights and signals

• Headlights, both main and dipped.
• Brake lights; ask someone to watch, or check the reflection in a window.
• Indicators front and rear, and hazard lights.

Fluids

• Engine oil level, on level ground, as the manual describes.
• Coolant level in the expansion tank, checked only when the engine is cold.
• Brake fluid level against the marks on the reservoir.
• Washer fluid, for cars.

For scooters and motorcycles

• Brake levers firm, not spongy.
• Chain tension and lubrication, if your bike has a chain.
• Mirrors secure and correctly adjusted.

Listen and look underneath

New noises, warning lights and drips under the parking spot are early signals. Note when they started; it helps the mechanic.

Checked 2026-10-20