Here at Mini Sport we understand the importance of doing a little of what you love – which is why we’re continuing our series of blog posts for those escaping in to the garage to work on your Mini! We have been suggesting ideas and helpful tips on things that you can do to everyone’s favourite little car from the comfort of your own home, to check out the blogs so far – see here.

This week, we’re going to talk you through how to approach performing a visual check on your Mini.

First up visually inspect the external of your Mini, we advise that you check the following:

  • Switch on your Mini’s side lights and check that all the bulbs are illuminated – front / rear, number plate and dash illumination.
  • Switch headlights on to the dip beam – check both headlamps are illuminated
  • Switch your headlamps on to the main beam – check both headlamps are illuminated and main beam warning lamp on the dash
  • Switch your Mini’s hazard warning lights on  – check front and rear lights and side repeaters where fitted for illumination including the dash warning lamp.
  • Turn on the ignition and check indicators – left hand and right hand, rear and side repeaters where fitted and dash warning lamp.
  • With the ignition still on press the brake pedal and get someone to check the brake lights are working
  • With the ignition still on, select reverse gear and check reverse lights where fitted
  • Check tyre walls for damage, bubbles or cuts and check tyre pressures
  • Check tyre tread depth and even wear across the width of the tread – if uneven, have your tracking checked professionally
  • Check wheel rims for damage or corrosion
  • Check condition of spare wheel and tyre pressure
  • Check wheel arch extensions for cracks or damage
  • Check inner and outer CV boots for splits or cracks
  • Check fluid levels – oil, coolant, brake and clutch and windscreen washer fluid.
  • Check windscreen for cracks or stone chips
  • Check wiper blades for even and unbroken wiping of the screen and rubber condition.

If any of the following checks leave you to believe that something isn’t as it should be – if something looks damaged or worn, replace the part! Failure to keep your Mini in tip-top shape could be dangerous for both yourself & other road users!

If you are unsure, or need any advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01282 778731 or sales@minisport.com where our friendly, knowledgeable team will help you.