1. When approaching the parking space, check for signs of oil or operating fluid leaks under the vehicle. If possible, fix the leak before leaving.
2. Walk around the vehicle. Check the following:
- completeness of removable parts (windshield wipers, exterior mirrors, etc.);
- integrity of the body glass, headlight and taillight lenses. Do not delay replacing broken lenses. Replace cracked body glass as soon as possible;
- condition of the tires. Radial tires have soft sidewalls, so tires with nominal internal pressure look flat. Remember their appearance (sinking). Check the air pressure in the tires at least once a month and, if necessary, bring it to the recommended pressure for this type of tire (see "Checking the wheels"). A difference in tire pressure values of one axle within 0.2-0.3 kgf/cm² can worsen the handling parameters, smoothness of the car and lead to unwanted skidding or drifting when braking. Due to reduced tire pressure, the tread wears out faster and more fuel is consumed;
- presence and condition of license plates.
Warning: Headlights, fog lights, tail lights, turn signals, repeaters and number plates must be clean.
3. Check the oil level in the engine crankcase and top it up to normal if necessary (see "Checking the level and adding oil to the lubrication system").
4. Check the brake fluid levels in the brake system and clutch release hydraulic fluid reservoir (see "Checking the level and adding brake fluid to the master cylinder reservoir")...
5. ...and coolant in the expansion tank (see "Checking the level and adding coolant"). If necessary, add fluid to the level.
6. Check the level of the working fluid in the power steering reservoir. If necessary, bring it up to the norm (see "Checking the level and adding working fluid to the power steering reservoir").
7. Check the operation of the parking brake (see "Checking the parking brake").
Note: The Chevrolet Cruze uses a self-tensioning or self-adjusting parking brake cable system.
8. Check the sound signal for proper operation,
9. Check the operation of the headlights, taillights, additional brake light and direction indicators. Replace faulty bulbs (see "Replacing lamps").
10. Check the operation of control and measuring instruments.
11. Check the operation of the windshield wipers and washers...
12. ...and also the fluid level in the washer reservoir (see "Checking the level and adding fluid to the washer reservoir"). If necessary, add liquid to the tank.
13. Before driving, be sure to check the operation of the brake system on a stationary vehicle by pressing the brake pedal. If the pedal "falls" to the floor without resistance, then the brake system is faulty. Operation of such a vehicle is prohibited.
Note: Before a long trip and after a long break in operation, check the condition of the spare wheel, equip the car with tools and accessories.
If a fault is detected, make a decision (taking into account the requirements of the Traffic Regulations) about the start of a trip or car repairs.