A bullet-point list for the daily inspection before departure: tyres, brakes, lights, fluids, coupling, emergency equipment, tachograph and paperwork. Go through it every morning before you drive.
Introduction
The daily inspection (pre-trip) is your assurance that the vehicle is roadworthy. Work through the points below systematically before you get in — and note any faults so they get reported to the workshop.
The vehicle
- 01Tyres: pressure, wear and damage — including the spare wheel.
- 02Lamps and indicators: low/high beam, brake lights, turn signals, reflectors.
- 03Brakes: air pressure, air loss and parking brake.
- 04Steering and mirrors: freely moving, clean and correctly adjusted mirrors.
- 05Windows and wipers: clean windows, working wipers and washer.
- 06Fluids: engine oil, coolant, AdBlue and washer fluid.
- 07Wheel bolts: check the marking/re-torqueing.
Coupling and load
- 01Coupling / fifth-wheel lock: correctly locked and secured.
- 02Load-securing equipment: straps, chains, anti-slip — checked and free of damage.
- 03Leaks: no oil, fuel or air leaks.
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