Before use
DVSA describes a walk-around check before a vehicle is used on the public highway, with at least one check in each 24-hour period of use. The driver remains responsible for vehicle condition while in use.
Operations guide
Vehicle checks and defect records
Connect fuel and mileage information with a separate, properly managed vehicle-maintenance process.
Practical guidance
Walk-around checks and responsibility
For commercial goods and passenger vehicles in Great Britain, use the current DVSA roadworthiness guidance alongside the requirements for your operation.
Report and rectify defects
Record defects and how they were dealt with. A safety-related defect must be rectified before the vehicle is used. A fuel transaction or mileage entry does not replace a vehicle check.
Keep an auditable record
DVSA says defect reports recording faults and their rectification must be retained for at least 15 months. Record the vehicle, date, reported fault, assessment, repair and responsible people.
Use the right guidance
Inspection intervals and specialist requirements depend on the vehicle and operation. Read the full DVSA guidance; separate requirements apply outside Great Britain.
Practical guidance
How fuel records can help the review
These are suggested review steps, not an automatic defect-detection function.
Identify the right vehicle
Use consistent registration or fleet identifiers in fuel, mileage and maintenance records. Investigate mismatches before combining reports.
Check changes in context
An increase in consumption may reflect route, load, idling, duty or a recording error. Review the context and refer possible mechanical concerns to the maintenance team.
Track the follow-up
Assign an owner and review date. Keep the maintenance decision in the maintenance record and compare subsequent fuel performance over a suitable period.
Keep due dates current
Where service or inspection reminders are configured, agree who updates readings and dates. A reminder supports the responsible team; it does not establish roadworthiness.
Your site
Keep the records and the equipment working together.
Discuss your fuel installation and its support requirements with Fueltek.
