How-to guide

How to do a daily vehicle walkaround check

A walkaround check before the first journey of the day catches the faults that cause breakdowns, fines and accidents - and the record shows you checked. It takes a few minutes once it's a habit.

Published 8 Nov 20264 min readBy metre2

Quick answer

Check the same ten items every day, mark each pass, fail or n/a, and keep a log so defects get fixed. Open the Metre2 Vehicle Daily Check Log in your browser - it's free for 15 days, then a one-off price, and nothing you type is uploaded.

What to check

Lights and indicators
Tyres and wheels
Mirrors and glass
Brakes
Horn
Seatbelts
Fluid levels and leaks
Bodywork and load security
Wipers and washers
Dashboard warning lights

Pass or fail

Any failed item means the check fails. Report it before the vehicle is used, and record what was done about it.

Keep a log

A log per vehicle shows its recent checks at a glance, so a vehicle that keeps failing - or hasn't been checked - stands out.

Commercial vehicles

If you run HGVs or larger vans, follow the DVSA's daily walkaround guidance for your vehicles; this guide covers the common checks only.

Do it in the Metre2 Vehicle Daily Check Log - 15 days free in your browser, or as a Windows app.

Use it in your browser - free, no sign-up Get the Windows app More about Vehicle Daily Check Log

Common mistakes

Ticking the sheet without looking.
Reporting a defect but never recording the fix.
Checking only the vehicles that are used most.

Frequently asked questions

Does it work on a phone?

Yes - open it in your phone's browser at the vehicle and log the check there.

Can I see the whole fleet?

Yes. A fleet board shows each vehicle's recent passes and fails, with vehicles needing attention first.