Find essential car checklists for maintenance, safety, road trips, and inspections. Stay prepared and keep your vehicle in top shape.

Car Checklists

This car maintenance checklist provides 100 essential tasks to keep your vehicle performing at its best. It covers everything from fluids and filters to brakes, tires, and safety checks, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Regular maintenance helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Following this checklist also improves fuel efficiency and extends your car’s lifespan. A simple, practical guide to keep your car safe, reliable, and road-ready.

Stay road-ready with this 100-item car maintenance checklist covering safety, reliability, and performance to keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Car Maintenance Checklist – 100 Essential Safety Tasks

Inspect oil quality (color, debris, viscosity)

Check for oil leaks around gaskets & seals

Inspect/correct oil pressure (gauge or warning light)

Inspect PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve

Check and top up engine coolant / antifreeze

Flush & replace coolant (as per schedule)

Inspect radiator, hoses, and clamps for cracks or leaks

Inspect and clean/replace engine oil cooler (if applicable)

Engine & Lubrication System

Check transmission fluid level (automatic or manual)

Inspect fluid color & odor (burnt smell or dark color)

Replace transmission fluid/filter per schedule

Inspect driveshafts, CV joints, boots for wear or leaks

Check differential (rear/ front) fluid level

Inspect universal joints (U-joints) for play

Inspect transfer-case fluid (for 4WD/AWD systems)

Inspect transmission mounts for cracks or wear

Check for unusual noises or slipping during gear shifts

Transmission, Drivetrain & Differential

Inspect fuel lines & connectors for leaks or damage

Inspect intake manifold and vacuum lines for leaks

Test exhaust system for leaks, damage, or corrosion

Inspect catalytic converter, O₂ sensors (if applicable)

Inspect EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system

Scan the ECU for fault codes / emissions faults

Fuel & Emissions System

Test battery voltage, condition, and terminals for corrosion

Clean battery terminals and apply anti-corrosion treatment

Inspect wiring harness for wear, chafing, or damage

Inspect spark plugs & wires (or coil packs)

Inspect sensors (mass airflow sensor, throttle position sensor, etc.)

Ignition & Electrical System

Check coolant reservoir level & inspect for leaks

Inspect radiator, radiator cap, and connections

Flush and replace coolant as per schedule

Inspect radiator fan(s) and fan clutch (if mechanical)

Inspect and replace heater core or associated hoses

Check heater blower motor and blower resistor

Inspect for heater/defroster duct blockages

Check cabin heating / AC temperature regulation

Cooling & Heating System

Inspect brake rotors/discs for scoring, warping

Inspect brake calipers, lines, hoses for leaks or damage

Flush and replace brake fluid (bleed system)

Test parking (hand) brake for proper operation

Inspect brake drums / shoes (if applicable)

Inspect ABS sensors, wiring and operation

Check brake booster vacuum line & operation

Perform brake performance test (pedal feel, stopping distance)

Brakes & Brake System

Inspect shock absorbers / struts for leakage or wear

Check coil springs or leaf springs for cracks or sagging

Inspect control arms, bushings, ball joints

Inspect tie rods, drag links, steering linkage, boots

Check power steering fluid level and quality

Flush / replace power steering fluid as required

Inspect steering rack or steering box for leaks

Inspect chassis for rust, corrosion, structural damage

Lubricate chassis points, suspension joints, grease fittings

Test alignment, check for uneven tire wear / steering pull

Suspension, Steering & Chassis

Inspect for sidewall damage (cracks, bulges, cuts)

Inspect wheel alignment (toe, camber, caster)

Tires & Wheels

Inspect taillights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights

Inspect fog lights, reverse lights, license plate lights

Inspect windshield wipers and replace blades

Check washer fluid level and spray nozzles

Inspect windshield, windows, mirrors for cracks or chips

Inspect exterior body for rust, corrosion, or damage

Lubricate hinges, door locks, hood/trunk latches

Inspect safety equipment (horn, seat belts, airbags)

Lighting, Wipers & Exterior – Safety Systems

Maintain a service log (dates, mileage, services done)

Follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedule in owner’s manual

Set reminders (via calendar or app) for periodic maintenance

Inspect undercarriage for fluid leaks or damage

Perform a road test (listen, feel for vibrations, abnormal behavior)

Monitor dashboard warning lights (check engine, ABS, etc.)

Clean and inspect filters (cabin air filter, pollen filter)

Wash and wax the car to protect paint & body

Check for recalls, software updates, service bulletins

Preventive & Log / Documentation

Complete pre-purchase inspection checklist covering all critical areas when buying a used car including documentation verification, mechanical inspection, test drive evaluation, and negotiation preparation.

Comprehensive inspection checklist for buying a used car covering documentation, exterior, interior, mechanical systems, and test drive evaluation.

Used Car Checklist: Essential Steps for a Smart Purchase

Confirm the title / registration papers are genuine and match the seller's name

Check for liens or legal encumbrances on the car

Review vehicle history report (accidents, flood, salvage, recalls)

Verify VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on multiple parts (dash, door jamb, engine)

Match odometer reading with service records and wear

Examine maintenance & service records (oil changes, major repairs)

Check for recall notices and whether they were addressed

Ensure the owner's manual, warranty booklets are present

Ask about previous ownership (how many owners, commercial use)

Confirm insurance / emissions / safety inspection history (if applicable locally)

Documentation & History

Inspect for dents, dings, and scratches across all panels

Look for rust spots, bubbling paint, or corrosion on edges and lower panels

Check that body gaps, panel alignments are consistent (doors, hood, trunk)

Look for signs of repainting / overspray / mismatched paint

Examine doors, trunk, hood for smooth opening/closing and proper fit

Inspect glass and windshield for cracks, chips, or pitting

Test all exterior lighting (headlamps, tail, indicators, brake, fog)

Check mirrors (side & rear) for cracks, looseness, proper adjustment

Inspect wipers, washer nozzles, ensure they work and no leaks

Check badges, trim, moldings for looseness or missing pieces

Exterior Body & Finishes

Measure tread depth on all tires (including spare)

Check for uneven wear patterns (could indicate alignment/suspension issues)

Inspect sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or damage

Confirm all tires are same size / load rating (or compatible)

Assess rim / wheel condition (dents, bends, cracks)

Test wheel lug nuts / torque / locking lug presence

Push down each corner (bounce test) — the car should rebound once

Inspect shocks, struts, springs for leaks, damage or sag

Check ball joints, tie rods, bushings for play or wear

Examine undercarriage / frame rails for rust, damage, signs of repair

Wheels, Tires & Suspension

Check engine oil level and quality (clean, not milky or sludgy)

Inspect coolant / radiator fluid for level, color, and leaks

Examine belts and hoses for cracks, softness, wear

Look for any fluid leaks (oil, coolant, power steering, etc.)

Inspect the battery (age, terminals, corrosion)

Check air filter, intake system, ducting, hoses

Inspect engine mounts for crack or looseness

Check spark plugs, wires (if accessible) for condition

Inspect radiator, cooling fins, fan, shrouds for damage

Smell for burnt odors, smoke or coolant smell when engine runs

Under the Hood / Engine Compartment

For automatic, inspect transmission fluid (color, smell, level)

For manual, test clutch pedal for free play, smooth engagement

Check gear shifts (automatic/manual) — smooth transitions, no slipping

Listen for gear noise, whining, jerks during shifting

Inspect drive axles / CV joints for boots, leaks or damage

Test 4WD / AWD / differential (if equipped) operations

Check for transmission leaks around seals and pan

Inspect universal joints / driveshaft for play/vibration

Assess the differential fluid (if accessible)

During test drive, verify reverse gear, uphill starts, torque delivery

Transmission & Drivetrain

Check brake pads / shoes thickness and even wear

Inspect rotors / drums for grooves, warping, rust

Check brake fluid level and clarity (not dark or muddy)

Test emergency / parking brake for holding power

During test drive, evaluate straight-line braking (no pull)

Check for vibration or pulsation in pedal or steering wheel during braking

Inspect brake lines, hoses for cracks, leaks or bulging

Confirm power steering fluid, rack & pinion, gear box condition

Test steering response (no looseness or play)

Check for steering noise (clunks, clicking), binding at turns

Brakes & Steering

Test all dashboard warning lights at startup (ABS, check engine, airbags)

Ensure gauges (fuel, temp, oil, volt) operate correctly

Try radio, speakers, infotainment, Bluetooth connectivity

Check climate control / AC / heater blowing cold / hot air promptly

Test power windows, power locks, mirrors, central lock

Check sunroof / moonroof for operation and seal integrity

Test interior lights, map lights, dome lights

Verify USB / charging ports / 12V outlets

Test rear camera, parking sensors, backup assist (if equipped)

Check alarm / immobilizer / key fob functions properly

Electrical / Electronics / Features

Inspect seats / upholstery for tears, stains, sagging

Check for water stains, dampness, mildew odor (possible leak)

Inspect headliner, trim, door panels for damage or looseness

Check carpets / mats for wear or moisture

Test all seatbelts for locking, retraction, condition

Inspect door seals, weather stripping for cracks or gaps

Test glove box, console, storage compartments

Verify sun visors, mirror covers, overhead console condition

Listen for rattles, squeaks in interior when shaking doors etc

Interior & Comfort

Cold start: engine should start easily, idle smoothly

Accelerate from low to highway speed — no hesitation or lag

Cruise at higher speed — check stability, vibrations, noise

Brake firmly — should feel smooth, straight, no pulsing

Turn corners / curves — check for pulling, uneven behavior

Listen for suspension noises over bumps or rough roads

Shift through all gears (manual/auto) and test reverse

Test AC / heater during drive, watch temp gauge for overheating

Check for vibrations in steering wheel, seats, or body

After the drive, re-check under hood and undercarriage for new leaks

Test Drive & Performance

Summarize all defects, repairs needed, cost estimates

Use findings to negotiate price reduction or repair inclusion

Confirm warranty / "as is" status in writing

Ensure all keys / remotes / spare keys are included

Get a written agreement covering the transaction details

Check insurance / registration cost / taxes for that vehicle

Decide whether to walk away if major issues found

Consider post-purchase inspection by trusted mechanic

After purchase, schedule major maintenance check (fluids, filters)

Retain all inspection notes / photos for future reference

Final Review & Negotiation

This comprehensive car inspection checklist provides a systematic approach to evaluating vehicle safety, mechanical condition, and compliance requirements. The inspection covers vehicle identification and documentation, exterior and body condition, tires and suspension systems, brake systems, engine and drivetrain components, electrical systems, interior features, underbody condition, and functional road testing. Use this checklist to ensure vehicle safety, identify maintenance needs, and verify compliance with inspection requirements for personal use, commercial fleets, or pre-purchase evaluations.

Comprehensive vehicle inspection checklist covering safety, mechanical, and documentation requirements for automotive assessment.

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