Is a small oil drip a defect?

A weep may be monitored, but any significant or fresh leak — and any fuel leak at all — should be reported and assessed before use.

Running out of AdBlue can put the engine into limp mode and points to a wider emissions-system issue; keeping it topped up avoids roadside problems.

What if I see coolant loss?

Low coolant can indicate a leak or a failing component and risks overheating — investigate rather than just topping up.

Walkaround check guide

How to check leaks and fluids on a daily walkaround

A puddle under a parked vehicle is a message. The daily leaks-and-fluids check reads it before a small drip becomes a breakdown or a fire risk.

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In short

This part of the walkaround looks under and around the vehicle for leaks and confirms key fluid levels. It catches developing faults early and stops environmental spills — engine oil, coolant, fuel, hydraulic and AdBlue leaks all tell you something.

What to check

Checking leaks & fluids, step by step

Ground under the vehicle for fresh oil, fuel, coolant or hydraulic leaks
Engine oil level (where it can be checked safely)
Coolant level in the header tank
Washer fluid topped up
Fuel and AdBlue levels adequate for the journey
No fuel or oil contamination on tyres or brakes

Common defects

Oil or coolant leaks

Low coolant indicating a bigger fault

Fuel leaks (a fire risk)

Hydraulic leaks on tipper or tail-lift gear

When to fail it

Fail the item for any fuel leak, a significant oil or hydraulic leak, or coolant loss that suggests a fault. Fuel and brake-contaminating leaks should take the vehicle off the road.

Why it matters

Leaks cause breakdowns, environmental pollution and, in the case of fuel or oil onto hot components or tyres, a fire or grip hazard.

More guides

Other walkaround check items

Checking tyres Checking brakes Checking lights Checking mirrors & glass Checking steering Checking wipers & washers Checking load security Checking coupling Checking number plates

FAQ

Checking leaks & fluids, answered

Keep reading

Walkaround checksThe full DVSA daily walkaround check app for every vehicle.The complete guideWhat a DVSA walkaround check is and the duties behind it.Free check listThe full DVSA daily walkaround check list, free to download.

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