Car Checks
Whether you’re in-between services, you’re heading off on a long journey, or your car just doesn’t feel quite right - our car checks will identify any issues with your vehicle. Our friendly, expert technicians will advise on any recommended repairs and give you peace of mind that your car is working exactly as it should be.
- 10 key vehicle component checks to prepare your car for seasonal changes
- Peace of mind your vehicle is in safe condition before long journeys
- Helps spot potential issues early and avoids costly repairs
- Headlight and brake light check
- Wiper blade condition check
- Battery health check
- Tyre depth check
- Tyre inflation check & top up
- Windscreen chip check
- MOT due date reminder (UK only)
- Oil level check
- Screen wash top up
- AdBlue & coolant check
- Quickly identify the cause of warning lights
- Peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe condition
- Receive expert advice and recommendations from our highly trained technicians
- Diagnose the cause of any worrying noises or car problems
- Peace of mind that your car is in safe condition
- Our experts will inspect for any mechanical faults
- Identifies potential safety issues
- Recommended alongside a service before your MOT or following an accident
- Includes checks of exhaust, brakes, steering and more
- Check the operation of the horn
- Check the dashboard warning lights and record any illuminated warning lights, including for ad-blue (if applicable)
- Check the security of seats and head restraints
- Check the seat belts for tears and ensure they're working correctly
- Check the operation of the exterior lights
- Check the condition/operation of the front and rear windscreen wipers
- Visually check the windscreen for chips or damage
- Check the mirrors for cracks or damage
- Check the condition of the number plates
- Check for excessive exhaust smoke and inspect the exhaust system, including the catalyst (if fitted), for leaks, security and noise
- Check the condition and security of the battery
- Check and record the strength of the antifreeze coolant
- Check the operation of the washer and top it up
- Check and record the engine oil level
- Check the brake fluid level
- Visually check the power steering system, pipes and hoses for any leaks, chafing and corrosion, and check the power steering level
- Check the correct tyres are fitted according to the side wall instructions
- Check and record the condition and tread depth of the tyres (including the spare)
- Check and adjust the tyre pressures (including the spare)
- Check the drive shaft gaiters for security, condition and leaks
- Check the steering and suspension components for leaks, wear and corrosion, including locking devices
- Check the steering rack gaiters for condition and security
- Check the wheel bearings for excessive play and roughness
- Check the brake pads for wear and record measurements
- Measure the brake discs and drums, and check for wear, cracks, corrosion, scoring and pitting (excluding internal drums)
- Check the wheel cylinders for leaks and operation
- Check the service brake shoes for wear or damage, then clean and adjust if required (excluding internal handbrake shoes)
- Visually check the brake hydraulic system, pipes and hoses for any leaks, chafing and corrosion
- Check the brake callipers for leaks and security, and carry out a brake boil test
- Check the handbrake for security, linkages and travel, then lubricate and adjust if required
- Improves fuel consumption
- Keeps repair costs down
- Peace of mind your braking system is in safe condition
- 5 essential checks to prepare your vehicle for seasonal changes
- Helps spot potential issues early and avoids costly repairs
- Get peace of mind that your vehicle is in safe condition
- Headlight and brake light check
- Wiper blade condition check
- Battery health check
- Windscreen chip check
- MOT due date reminder (UK only)
- Avoid unexpected breakdowns
- Peace of mind before long journeys
- Our expert technicians will advise on any replacements
- Improves visibility, making driving safer
- Dramatically restores dull, yellowed headlights to like-new clarity
- Lens sealing included to prevent it from happening again
- Front headlamps only
- Ensures your tyres are road-legal
- Improved grip on the road, especially in bad weather
- Better stopping distances to help prevent an accident
- Our experts check your vehicle against the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule
- Peace of mind in between services
- Identifies issues early and potential costly repairs
- Air Filter
- Brake fluid
- Filter, cabin air
- Air con re-gas
- Transmission fluids
- Windscreen chip
- Anti-freeze
- Oil Filter
- Spark Plug
- Timing Belt
- V-belt
- Early detection of potential wear or damage
- Helps you stay safe on the road
- Provides a smoother driving experience.
- Helps spot steering issues early, before they become costly repairs
- Checks all major steering components for safety and reliability
- Includes power steering and geometry checks for smoother, more controlled driving
- A comprehensive check to identify the cause of any faults or leaks
- Helps control air quality
- Extends the life of your air con system
- Identifies potential issues before they become costly repairs
- Ensures your exhaust system is working efficiently
- Helps maintain optimal engine performance
- Drive with confidence - 14-point check ensures your vehicle is ready for winter
- Stay safe and see clearly – Duxback windscreen treatment improves visibility in winter weather (worth £25)
- Protect your engine – fluid top ups keep your engine and cooling system safe in freezing temperatures (worth £39.99)
- Duxback windscreen treatment (worth £25)
- Antifreeze change* (worth £39.99) (*Excluding electric vehicles)
- Exterior light bulb check
- Wiper blade condition check
- Battery health check
- Windscreen chip check
- Tyre depth check
- Tyre inflation check plus top-up
- Oil level check
- Screen wash top-up
- Ad blue level check
- Check starter motor and charging system
- Check Ancillary drive belts
- Air con temperature check
- Improves your visibility on the road
- Prevents dazzling other drivers
- Headlights aligned with precision
- Helps identify potential issues early
- Improves handling and comfort, providing a smoother, safer ride
- Uses OEM car parts, so your vehicle stays reliable and road-ready
- Reduce harmful exhaust emissions
- Maintain engine’s power and performance
- Suitable for Diesel cars only
Ways to apply
- Build your basket and select Trade Credit at checkout.
- Apply below to check your eligibility.
Activate your limit
- If eligible, receive your Trade Credit limit instantly.
- Authenticate your business with an ID check*.
*Only required on your first Trade Credit purchase.
Pay on account
- Complete your purchase and pay on account at the end of the following month.
- Enjoy no interest or transaction fees**.
**Late payments can impact your business credit
Already applied and have a limit? Approve your order via SMS to finalise your purchase.
Why Choose Halfords for Your Car Check or Health Check
Here at Halfords, we offer reliable car checks through a nationwide network of hundreds of trusted garages across the UK, so we’re never far away.
Whether you’re preparing your car for winter, looking for an inspection of your air conditioning for summer, or simply want to make sure your car is in top condition, we have different vehicle checks to suit your needs.
Our aim is to make sure every car on the road is safe to drive, which is why we offer a range of free checks, such as the free free 5 Point Car Check, carried out by our ATA-certified technicians.
If you have noticed there is an issue with a certain car part, we offer free car checks focused on:
- Tyres
- Repairs
- Brakes
- Exhaust and catalytic converter
- Clutch
- Steering
For more in-depth vehicle checks, key components can be examined in a Halfords 30-point check, or 10-point check, which is ideal if your vehicle has recently been in a collision. Maintaining the health of your car with these Halfords safety checks can prevent costly repairs down the line if issues get worse.
For added convenience, our car checks can also be combined with your MOT, Servicing or other routine vehicle maintenance in a single visit. Simply, book in online at your local Halfords Garage.
What’s Included in a Halfords Car & Health Check
Our checks include:
- Tyres and tread depth – ensuring your tyres have the right grip, are properly inflated, and free from damage.
- Brakes and brake fluid – assessing pads, discs, and fluid levels to maintain stopping power.
- Lights and visibility – checking that all headlights, indicators, and wipers are working effectively.
- Battery and electrical health – ensuring your battery and electrical components are in good condition to prevent breakdowns.
- Fluids and under-bonnet components – examining engine oil, coolant, belts, hoses, and other key parts to give you confidence that your vehicle is safe and road-ready.
- Steering & Suspension – ensuring your suspension hasn’t been affected by bumps, knocks or potholes; ideal for heavier vehicles such as EVs and SUVs.
Car Check vs Health Check vs MOT – What’s the Difference?
Free checks focus on specific areas such as batteries, lights, fluids, and under-bonnet components, offering a quick, zero-cost way to catch minor issues before they escalate into bigger problems.
A health check goes a step further, providing a more in-depth assessment that’s especially useful before an MOT or routine service to ensure your car is fully prepared.
An MOT, on the other hand, is a legal requirement for vehicles over a certain age, testing that your car meets essential safety and environmental standards to remain road legal.
Book a Car Check Near You
If you’re searching for a car safety inspection near you, look no further. With hundreds of Halfords garages across the country, you’re never far from our expert technicians.
We understand how important it is to keep your car in top condition, so we aim to provide a quick, reliable service with same-day appointments available where possible.
With friendly, professional support and a trusted local garage feel, booking your car safety checks couldn’t be easier.
Ready to get started? Find your local garage and book your next car check today.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a Halfords car or health check free?
Here at Halfords, we offer a range of free car check from the popular free 5 Point Car Check to free tyre checks and brake checks.
- How long does a car check take?
On average, most of our car checks take around 30-minutes to complete. We aim to be as thorough as possible, so this time can vary depending on the check.
- How often should I get a vehicle health check?
You should get a vehicle check between your MOT and regular services, just to ensure your car's vital components are working as they should. A car check is also a great option if you notice something that isn’t quite right with your vehicle.
Can I book a car check alongside an MOT or service?
Yes, you can book a car check alongside an MOT or service to save you the hassle of multiple garage trips.