AZ Checklists
Car Maintenance Checklist – 100 Essential Safety Tasks

Car Maintenance Checklist – 100 Essential Safety Tasks

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

Car Maintenance Checklist

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.

1. Engine & Lubrication System

1Check engine oil level (with dipstick)
2Inspect oil quality (color, debris, viscosity)
3Change engine oil & replace oil filter
4Check for oil leaks around gaskets & seals
5Inspect/correct oil pressure (gauge or warning light)
6Inspect PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve
7Check and top up engine coolant / antifreeze
8Flush & replace coolant (as per schedule)
9Inspect radiator, hoses, and clamps for cracks or leaks
10Inspect and clean/replace engine oil cooler (if applicable)

2. Transmission, Drivetrain & Differential

1Check transmission fluid level (automatic or manual)
2Inspect fluid color & odor (burnt smell or dark color)
3Replace transmission fluid/filter per schedule
4Inspect driveshafts, CV joints, boots for wear or leaks
5Check differential (rear/ front) fluid level
6Replace differential fluid when due
7Inspect universal joints (U-joints) for play
8Inspect transfer-case fluid (for 4WD/AWD systems)
9Inspect transmission mounts for cracks or wear
10Check for unusual noises or slipping during gear shifts

3. Fuel & Emissions System

1Replace fuel filter (if serviceable)
2Inspect fuel lines & connectors for leaks or damage
3Check fuel pump operation / pressure
4Inspect and clean fuel injectors
5Check and replace the air filter
6Inspect intake manifold and vacuum lines for leaks
7Test exhaust system for leaks, damage, or corrosion
8Inspect catalytic converter, O₂ sensors (if applicable)
9Inspect EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system
10Scan the ECU for fault codes / emissions faults

4. Ignition & Electrical System

1Test battery voltage, condition, and terminals for corrosion
2Inspect and tighten battery connections
3Clean battery terminals and apply anti-corrosion treatment
4Test alternator output & belt
5Inspect starter motor and connections
6Inspect wiring harness for wear, chafing, or damage
7Check all fuse boxes and fuses
8Inspect spark plugs & wires (or coil packs)
9Replace spark plugs per schedule
10Inspect sensors (mass airflow sensor, throttle position sensor, etc.)

5. Cooling & Heating System

1Check coolant reservoir level & inspect for leaks
2Inspect radiator, radiator cap, and connections
3Flush and replace coolant as per schedule
4Inspect/replace thermostat
5Inspect water pump & pulley
6Inspect radiator fan(s) and fan clutch (if mechanical)
7Inspect and replace heater core or associated hoses
8Check heater blower motor and blower resistor
9Inspect for heater/defroster duct blockages
10Check cabin heating / AC temperature regulation

6. Brakes & Brake System

1Inspect brake pad thickness and wear
2Inspect brake rotors/discs for scoring, warping
3Inspect brake calipers, lines, hoses for leaks or damage
4Check brake fluid level & quality
5Flush and replace brake fluid (bleed system)
6Test parking (hand) brake for proper operation
7Inspect brake drums / shoes (if applicable)
8Inspect ABS sensors, wiring and operation
9Check brake booster vacuum line & operation
10Perform brake performance test (pedal feel, stopping distance)

7. Suspension, Steering & Chassis

1Inspect shock absorbers / struts for leakage or wear
2Check coil springs or leaf springs for cracks or sagging
3Inspect control arms, bushings, ball joints
4Inspect tie rods, drag links, steering linkage, boots
5Check power steering fluid level and quality
6Flush / replace power steering fluid as required
7Inspect steering rack or steering box for leaks
8Inspect chassis for rust, corrosion, structural damage
9Lubricate chassis points, suspension joints, grease fittings
10Test alignment, check for uneven tire wear / steering pull

8. Tires & Wheels

1Check tire pressure (all four + spare)
2Inspect tread depth and wear pattern
3Rotate tires according to schedule
4Inspect for sidewall damage (cracks, bulges, cuts)
5Balance wheels if vibration is felt
6Inspect wheel alignment (toe, camber, caster)
7Check wheel lug nut torque
8Inspect rims for bends, cracks, damage
9Inspect the spare tire & its mounting
10Check tire valve stems and caps

9. Lighting, Wipers & Exterior – Safety Systems

1Inspect headlights (low and high beam)
2Inspect taillights, brake lights, turn signals, hazard lights
3Inspect fog lights, reverse lights, license plate lights
4Replace any burned-out bulbs
5Inspect windshield wipers and replace blades
6Check washer fluid level and spray nozzles
7Inspect windshield, windows, mirrors for cracks or chips
8Inspect exterior body for rust, corrosion, or damage
9Lubricate hinges, door locks, hood/trunk latches
10Inspect safety equipment (horn, seat belts, airbags)

10. Preventive & Log / Documentation

1Maintain a service log (dates, mileage, services done)
2Follow manufacturer’s maintenance schedule in owner’s manual
3Keep receipts of parts and services
4Set reminders (via calendar or app) for periodic maintenance
5Inspect undercarriage for fluid leaks or damage
6Perform a road test (listen, feel for vibrations, abnormal behavior)
7Monitor dashboard warning lights (check engine, ABS, etc.)
8Clean and inspect filters (cabin air filter, pollen filter)
9Wash and wax the car to protect paint & body
10Check for recalls, software updates, service bulletins
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