Car Maintenance Checklist – 100 Essential Safety Tasks

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

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Car Maintenance Checklist

A car maintenance checklist helps you stay organized, prevent costly repairs, and extend the life of your vehicle by ensuring no task is overlooked. Regular upkeep boosts safety, improves fuel efficiency, and maintains resale value. Our checklist simplifies the process with 100 essential items across 10 sections, making it easy to follow and ensuring your car remains reliable and road-ready year-round.

Engine Care

Check engine oil level

Replace oil filter

Inspect coolant level

Replace spark plugs

Inspect timing belt

Clean fuel injectors

Check for oil leaks

Inspect air filter

Test engine performance

Listen for unusual noises

Transmission & Drivetrain

Check transmission fluid

Replace transmission fluid & filter

Inspect clutch (manual cars)

Test shifting smoothness

Inspect driveshafts

Check CV joints & boots

Inspect differential fluid

Check axle seals

Inspect universal joints

Road test for vibrations

Braking System

Check brake fluid

Inspect brake pads

Inspect brake rotors

Test parking brake

Inspect brake lines

Check ABS warning light

Inspect brake shoes (if drum brakes)

Check calipers for leaks

Inspect master cylinder

Test brake response

Suspension & Steering

Inspect shocks & struts

Check steering fluid

Inspect ball joints

Inspect tie rods

Check wheel alignment

Inspect bushings

Test power steering function

Check sway bars

Inspect control arms

Test steering response

Tires & Wheels

Check tire pressure

Rotate tires

Inspect tread depth

Check for uneven wear

Inspect sidewalls

Balance tires

Inspect rims for damage

Tighten lug nuts

Carry spare tire

Inspect valve stems

Electrical System

Test battery charge

Inspect battery terminals

Check alternator output

Test starter motor

Inspect fuses

Check wiring harness

Test headlights

Test taillights & signals

Inspect interior lights

Test horn

Fluids & Filters

Check engine oil

Replace engine oil

Check transmission fluid

Inspect coolant

Check power steering fluid

Inspect brake fluid

Check windshield washer fluid

Replace fuel filter

Replace cabin air filter

Inspect differential oil

Exterior Maintenance

Wash car regularly

Wax car

Inspect paint for rust

Check windshield for cracks

Inspect mirrors

Check door seals

Inspect wiper blades

Test windshield washer system

Inspect headlights & covers

Check bumper condition

Interior Maintenance

Vacuum carpets

Clean dashboard

Inspect seat belts

Test seat adjusters

Inspect upholstery

Clean air vents

Replace cabin light bulbs

Test horn button

Inspect pedals for wear

Test power windows

Seasonal & Emergency Checks

Carry first aid kit

Carry jumper cables

Inspect spare tools

Check fire extinguisher

Pack emergency kit (blanket, flashlight)

Inspect A/C performance

Test heater performance

Install winter tires (if needed)

Check defroster

Prepare seasonal fluids (coolant/antifreeze mix)

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