Car Maintenance Checklist: Weekly, Monthly and Seasonal Checks

A few minutes of checks each week and month, plus a regular service and MOT, keep most cars safe, legal and reliable. Tyres, lights, fluids and the battery are the items most worth watching yourself.

What should I check every week?

• Tyres: check pressures against the handbook or the sticker in the door frame, and look for cuts, bulges and uneven wear. The legal minimum tread depth for cars is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the whole tyre.

• Lights: walk round the car with the lights on, including brake lights and indicators. Ask someone to help or use a reflection in a window.

• Washer fluid: keep it topped up with screenwash, especially in winter when roads are wet and gritted.

What should I check every month?

• Engine oil: with the car on level ground and the engine cool, check the dipstick or the oil level display. Top up with the grade in the handbook.

• Coolant: check the level in the expansion tank when the engine is cold. Never open the cap while it is hot.

• Brake fluid: the level should sit between the marks on the reservoir. A falling level or a soft pedal needs looking at straight away.

• Wipers: look for split or smearing blades and replace them if they no longer clear the screen cleanly.

• Battery: look for corrosion on the terminals and note any slow starting. Our guide to car batteries explains the warning signs.

What changes with the seasons?

Before winter, check the heater and demisters, make sure the battery is healthy and pack a small kit: torch, blanket, ice scraper, de-icer, phone charger and a warm layer. Our winter maintenance guide and guide to winter tyres go into more detail.

In summer, check the air conditioning works, keep an eye on coolant on long or slow journeys, and replace wiper blades that the heat has hardened.

How often does my car need a service and MOT?

Follow the service schedule in the handbook, which is usually set by time or mileage, whichever comes first. Our guide to car service schedules explains the different types of service.

In England, most cars need their first MOT by the third anniversary of registration, then every year. You can check when your MOT is due on GOV.UK.

Common questions

How do I know if a warning light is serious?

Red warning lights generally mean stop as soon as it is safe. Amber lights mean get the car checked soon. Our guide to dashboard warning lights covers the common ones.

Do electric cars need the same checks?

Mostly. Tyres, lights, wipers, brake fluid and the 12-volt battery still need checking, but there is no engine oil to look after.

Can I service my car at an independent garage?

Yes. Our guide on whether an independent service affects your warranty explains what to look for.

Need a service or repair in Barnsley?

Book with our service centre or call 01226 574321. For more everyday tips, visit our car care hub.

Updated October 2026.