Remove the dipstick and wipe the end with a clean cloth or rag. Replace the dipstick and remove it again to check the oil on the end which must show between the minimum and maximum markers

The fluid must show between the minimum and maximum marker levels on the side of the brake fluid reservoir.

The coolant fluid level must show between the minimum and maximum markers on the side of the coolant level reservoir.

The windscreen washer level should be topped up regularly using water with a screen wash additive (not anti-freeze) to help clear dirt and grime and to stop it freezing in Winter.

"I would operate the brake pedal when I have a reflected view, for example, off another parked car or a window, or I would ask a friend to press the pedal so I could check them."

"The brakes should not feel spongy or pull to one side and should be tested as soon as you pull away where safe to do so."

"Details in the manufacturers guide and on the passenger side door pillar. The pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold and the spare should be checked as well and valve caps should be replaced."

"There must be no cuts or bulges, a minimum of 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three quarters of the width of the tyre and around the whole circumference."

All modern tyres will have a 'tread depth marker' in the main tread that gives an easy method of checking the tread is ok.

"Gentle turning pressure on the wheel as as the engine is started would result in a slight but noticeable movement as the system begins to operate"

Demonstrate this by applying the footbrake to keep the car steady, disengaging and re-applying the parking brake to show that it secures itself and is not at the end of its working travel.

By giving the horn a short burst taking care not to frighten any pedestrians

Operate the hazard warning and walk around the car checking front, side and rear indicators are functioning.

Turn on the lights and walk around the car to check that they all work.