Car Inspection Checklist: A Comprehensive Car Maintenance Guide

Key Highlights:

• Daily/weekly checks involve checking the basic condition of exterior and interior components.
• Monthly/bi-monthly checks include checking the condition of the engine oil, battery, belts, and hoses, as well as signs of leakage.
• Annual checks are the more complex ones, which include checking the condition of more complicated mechanical and electrical components.

Daily/Weekly Car Inspection List

These are the most basic forms of car upkeep, which require minimal technical assistance. The following are some of the basic maintenance checks you can do either daily or once a week:

• Check for signs of dent or scratches on the exterior body panels, including bumpers, doors, fenders, bonnet and boot.
• Check the working condition of all the lights, including headlamps, tail lamps, turn indicators, fog lamps, reverse lamps and cabin lights.
• Check the condition of front and rear windscreens and side window panels to ensure there are no cracks on them.
• Check if wiper blades - both front and rear - are not worn out.
• Check the signs of damage on tyres, such as cuts, punctures or objects that can cause punctures.
• Check the air pressure in all four tyres.
• Check for signs of uneven wear, and if present, rectify them with proper wheel alignment and balancing.
• Keep the windshield washer fluid at an optimal level.

Monthly or Bi-Monthly Car Inspection List

The checks that should be done a bit less frequently - possibly once in a month or two - are as follows:

• Check for signs of battery wear, and if it's nearing the end of its typical 3–5 year life cycle, replace it proactively to avoid being stranded.
• Check possible cracks on belts and hoses in the engine bay, and ensure they are tight enough.
• Keep an eye on leakage signs under your car, especially under the engine bay and near the brake assemblies.
• Check the level of engine oil and its condition using a dipstick. If the oil level is too low or appears contaminated, it is time to flush the old oil and replace it with a fresh dose.

Annual Car Inspection List

There are some more technically complex checks in your car that require professional assistance from a technician during annual maintenance appointments. These are as follows:

• Check the condition of spark plugs and engine mountings in the engine bay for any signs of misfire or increased NVH levels.
• Check the condition and level of engine oil, coolant, brake and transmission fluids.
• Check the functioning of the tie rods, ball joints and shocks of your car’s steering system.
• Check the alignment angles of your car’s tyres and steering wheel assembly.
• Check for signs of wear in brake pads (for hydraulic disc brakes) or brake shoes (for mechanical drum brakes), and if needed, replace them.
• Check signs of rust in the exhaust system and the car’s underbody, especially after monsoons.
• Have a pollution-under-control check and get a certification for it.
• Check the operation of the air conditioning system, and if needed, replace or top up the AC refrigerant.

Maintain Your Car, Avoid Costly Repairs

It doesn’t matter if you are just an average driver who uses a car for usual commutes or a motoring enthusiast who cares for the car more than yourself. Proactive car maintenance is a must for all vehicle owners. With a periodic car service checklist, you can reduce the risks of vehicle breakdowns and more expensive repairs, while also ensuring improved reliability and safety for occupants.

FAQs

1. What are the types of car inspections?

There are three types of car inspections: daily/weekly for basic checks, monthly/bi-monthly for intermediate checks, and annual for more complex checks.

2. What is an inspection checklist?

A car inspection checklist includes essential checks to ensure the condition and functionality of your car’s components and systems as a measure of proactive vehicle maintenance, preventing potential damage or expenses.

3. How to check the oil in a car?

You can check the engine oil level in a car using an oil dipstick. To check the oil, first turn off the engine of your vehicle and pull out the dipstick, usually marked with a bright handle. Wipe the lower tip of the dipstick, reinsert it and pull it out again. The oil level against the markings on the dipstick indicates the level of oil in the engine.