A monthly car check catches visible issues between services; an annual review checks the maintenance record and upcoming work. Neither replaces the manufacturer’s schedule or a legally required inspection.
Monthly checklist
Check cold tyre pressure, visible tyre damage and tread; lights and indicators; windscreen, mirrors and wipers; washer fluid; oil level where applicable using the manual’s method; visible leaks; warning messages; and the condition of seat belts. Note anything that has changed in braking or steering. Never open a hot cooling system.
Annual planning checklist
Review the next service date and mileage, inspection due date, brake and tyre reports, fluid and filter requirements, recall status and the age or condition of the 12 V battery. Ask the workshop to assess inaccessible or safety-critical components. EVs also need model-specific checks despite having no engine oil change.
Turn a tick into a record
Record date, odometer, finding, action and completion. “Tyres checked” is less useful than the measured pressures and any damage found. Do not defer a safety defect until the annual review. Use the checklist as a record of observations, not a certificate of roadworthiness.
Working checklist
Ticks are not saved. Keep findings and actions separately or print this page.
