A driver checklist to help prevent HGV breakdowns and reduce downtime
Most HGV breakdowns do not happen without warning. They start as small issues such as a slow leak, uneven tyre wear, loose suzies, or an AdBlue warning that gets ignored. A consistent DAF daily walk-around check and quick cab check helps you spot problems early, report them, and reduce the risk of unscheduled downtime.
This is a practical DAF driver checklist for everyday use, not an engineer-level inspection.
1) Under-bonnet checks and fluid levels (where safe and accessible)
- Engine oil level: within min/max; watch for signs of excessive use
- Coolant level: correct level; no visible leaks or staining
- Screen wash: topped up (use additive in winter)
- Power steering fluid (if applicable): level correct
- Leaks: look for oil, coolant, fuel, or AdBlue on the ground or in the engine bay
Catching fluid issues early helps prevent overheating, engine damage, and roadside stops.
2) Tyres and wheels (one of the biggest HGV breakdown risks)
- Tyre condition: no cuts, bulges, exposed cords
- Tread depth: legal and even wear
- Tyre pressures: visibly inflated; check TPMS warnings if fitted
- Wheel nuts or studs: none missing; indicators aligned
- Valve caps: fitted and intact
Strong tyre and wheel checks reduce blowouts, wheel-related defects, and suspension damage.
3) Air system and brake checks (safety critical)
- Air build-up time: reaches normal operating pressure
- Air leaks: listen during your walk-around
- Brake warning lights: none showing on the dashboard
- Brake lines and hoses: no damage, chafing, or leaks
- Drain air tanks if required by vehicle spec (and trailer if fitted)
This helps prevent immobilisation and avoids safety defects developing into roadside failures.
4) Lights, visibility and electrics (common causes of stops)
- All lights working: headlamps, sidelights, indicators, brake, hazards
- Number plate lights: often missed
- Mirrors and cameras: clean, secure, functioning
- Many camera lenses have heaters, but do not rely on them to clear ice or snow. Clean first.
- Wipers and washers: effective sweep and spray
- Dashboard warning lights: investigate anything abnormal
Keeping on top of visibility and electrics reduces avoidable delays and defects.
5) AdBlue and emissions checks (major cause of modern HGV breakdowns)
- AdBlue level: sufficient for the journey
- No engine, NOx, or AdBlue warnings displayed
- Correct AdBlue cap fitted to avoid contamination
- No crystallisation or leaks around the tank and lines
This helps prevent derate, non-start, and roadside immobilisation.
6) Trailer connections, coupling and body equipment
- Fifth wheel or kingpin: secure, correctly engaged, greased
- Air and electrical suzies: secure, undamaged, not rubbing or stretched
- Trailer brake and ABS lights: reading correctly
- Tail-lift: functioning and stows correctly
- Body panels and under-run bars: secure
These checks prevent coupling issues and trailer-related downtime before you leave the yard.
7) Fuel system checks
- Enough fuel for the route (including diversions and delays)
- Fuel cap secure
- No fuel leaks
- Water-in-fuel warning light (if fitted)
Running out of fuel or contamination can mean expensive call-outs and lost time.
8) Cab checks and driver controls
- Pedals: free movement, no obstructions
- Steering feel: no excessive play or unusual noise
- Handbrake: holds properly and releases correctly
- Clutch operation (manual or automated): smooth engagement
- Seat and belts: secure and undamaged
These checks help prevent driveability faults and safety defects during the shift.
9) DAF driver display messages and early reporting (DAF-specific)
- Check DAF driver display messages at the start of shift and during the day
- Report amber warnings early and do not wait for red faults
- Repeated warnings usually mean action is needed, even if it clears
Early reporting often prevents recovery and reduces total downtime.
10) Driver habits that help prevent breakdowns
- Report warning lights immediately
- Drive to the conditions, avoid harsh braking and over-revving
- Allow sensible warm-up and cool-down where appropriate
- Use the night heater or cabin heater to defrost windows (timers help)
- Complete the DAF daily walk-around check every shift, no shortcuts
Quick summary: the daily DAF driver checklist
If you want a simple routine, do it in this order:
- Walk-around: tyres and wheels, lights, leaks, trailer connections
- Cab check: warnings, wipers and washers, controls
- DAF messages: report amber warnings early
- Before moving: air build-up and brake warnings clear
Even with a solid routine and the right winter checks, the unexpected can still happen. These tips will help you stay ahead of most issues, but if you do run into trouble on the road, DAFaid is always there as a safety net. Support is available around the clock on 0800 919 395 in the UK or +44 1908 51 51 51 from abroad.