Daily Walk-Around Checks
Before every journey, drivers should conduct a basic vehicle inspection:
- Exterior
- All lights working (headlights, indicators, brake lights, markers)
- Mirrors clean and properly adjusted
- No visible damage to bodywork
- Wheels secure, no missing nuts
- Tyres: Check for damage, bulges, adequate tread
- Tyre pressures (where practical)
- Load secure and within limits
- Cab
- All instruments working
- Warning lights check on ignition
- Wipers and washers functioning
- Horn working
- Seatbelts present and working
- First aid kit present
- Engine Bay
- Oil level within range
- Coolant level adequate
- AdBlue level (if applicable)
- No visible leaks
- Air tanks drained of moisture
Weekly Checks
These checks should be performed at least once per week:
- Braking System
- Brake pad/lining thickness
- Brake drums/discs for scoring or damage
- Air system for leaks
- Handbrake operation
- ABS warning lights
- Tyres (More Detailed)
- Tread depth measured (minimum 1mm legal, but 3mm recommended)
- Tyre pressures checked cold
- Inspect for cuts, bulges, embedded objects
- Check inner tyres on twins
- Wheel nut torque
- Suspension
- Visual check of springs and air bags
- Check shock absorbers for leaks
- Inspect bushings and mounts
- Coupling Equipment (Articulated)
- Fifth wheel operation and lubrication
- Kingpin condition
- Air and electrical connections
- Landing gear operation
Monthly Checks
More comprehensive inspection on a monthly basis:
- Engine and Transmission
- Drive belt condition and tension
- Fuel system connections
- Exhaust system integrity
- Transmission fluid level (where applicable)
- Clutch adjustment and pedal travel
- Steering
- Steering wheel play (max 75mm for trucks)
- Power steering fluid level
- Track rod ends for wear
- Steering box mounting
- Electrical
- Battery terminals clean and tight
- Wiring condition, no chafing
- Fuses intact
- Tachograph calibration date
- Chassis
- Frame rails for cracks or corrosion
- Body mountings secure
- Mudguards and spray suppression
- Registration plates legible
Service Intervals
Follow manufacturer recommendations, but typical intervals are:
Every 10,000-20,000 miles
- Oil and filter change
- Air filter inspection
- Fuel filter check
Every 40,000-60,000 miles
- Full service including all filters
- Brake inspection
- Injector check
- Cooling system inspection
Annually or 80,000 miles
- Major service
- Cambelt/timing chain inspection
- Full brake overhaul assessment
- Suspension component inspection
Two-yearly
- Tachograph calibration
- Trailer brake testing (where applicable)
Always record all maintenance in your maintenance records - this is a legal requirement for O-licence holders.
Record Keeping
Legal requirements for HGV maintenance records:
What to Record
- Date of inspection/repair
- Mileage at time of work
- What was checked or repaired
- Parts replaced (with part numbers if possible)
- Who carried out the work
- Any defects found
Retention
- Keep records for at least 15 months
- Available for DVSA inspection
- Digital or paper records acceptable
Driver Defect Reporting
- Drivers must report defects in writing
- Company must have a system for receiving and acting on reports
- Evidence of action taken must be recorded
Proper maintenance records demonstrate compliance with your O-licence undertakings and can be crucial evidence if a defect causes an incident.