When should you book a vehicle health check?

A vehicle health check can be the difference between staying safe on the road or suffering a breakdown or accident. Carried out by trained technicians, they’re a fast and smart way to check your vehicle is safe to drive.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the importance of vehicle health checks, the components they cover, and why you should get one booked in your diary.

What is a vehicle health check?

Otherwise known as a VHC, a vehicle health check is an optional inspection on your vehicle’s overall health to identify wear and potential issues ahead of an MOT.

By catching issues early, you’re in a better position to limit avoidable damage to components which might otherwise need replacing later down the road.

What components are checked in a vehicle health check?

A vehicle health check visually inspects interior and exterior parts commonly prone to wear and tear. Not simply to assess the condition, but to check the overall functionality and integrity of each component.

At C R Allen & Sons, our technicians follow a 25-point safety check which covers:

• Fluid levels including engine oil, brake fluid, coolants, power steering circuits as well as front and rear screen wash.
• Signals and visibility including number plate lights, indicators, hazard warning lights, dipped and main beam headlights, reverse and stop lights, and wiper blade functionality
• Safety including the condition of shock absorbers, tyre wear and pressure, exhaust, braking system, and condition of drive shaft bellows
• Operation including horn, mounting of bumpers, windscreen, lights, rear-view mirror and all other opening elements.

Throughout the check, your technician will record everything using a traffic light system. For anything marked in ‘Red’, the component needs urgent attention. ‘Amber’ means a repair or replacement is recommended, and ‘Green’ means you’re all good to go.

What’s the difference between a vehicle health check and an MOT?

Where a vehicle health check is an optional service to visually inspect the overall mechanical function of components, an MOT is a mandatory check required by law.

As part of an MOT, a technician will also dive into more detail on a wider range of components such as your clutch, gearbox, and exhaust system. It will also check your emission levels are within the legal limit.

It’s important to know a vehicle health check doesn’t replace an MOT. Although it can help you identify issues with components, it’s still compulsory to follow your servicing schedule.

How much does a vehicle health check cost?

We can’t speak for every provider, but a vehicle health check at C R Allen & Sons is completely free. All it’ll cost you is a trip to our family-run garage in Peacehaven.

Should your vehicle require any minor or major works, our service team will also provide a quote for free. There’s no obligation to use us, but at least you can leave knowing what needs to happen with an accurate idea of costs.