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Car Maintenance Checklist

I. Engine

Oil:

When was the last oil change?

What is the recommended oil change interval?

What type and weight of oil is required?

 

Are there any oil leaks?

 

Is the oil level correct?

 

Coolant:

Is the coolant level correct?

 

When was the coolant last flushed and replaced?

 

Is the coolant concentration correct (if applicable)?

 

Are there any coolant leaks?

 

Air Filter:

When was the air filter last changed?

 

Does the air filter need replacing?

 

Engine Belts:

Are the belts in good condition (no cracks, fraying, or wear)?

 

Are the belts properly tensioned?

 

Spark Plugs:

When were the spark plugs last changed?

 

Do the spark plugs need replacing?

 

Battery:

Are the battery terminals clean and corrosion-free?

 

Is the battery securely mounted?

 

Is the battery charging system working properly?

 

Exhaust System:

Are there any exhaust leaks?

 

Is the exhaust system in good condition (no damage)?

 

II. Brakes

Brake Pads:

How much brake pad life is remaining?

 

Do the brake pads need replacing?

 

Brake Rotors:

Are the brake rotors in good condition (no warping or excessive wear)?

 

Brake Fluid:

Is the brake fluid level correct?

 

When was the brake fluid last flushed and replaced?

 

Brake Lines:

Are there any leaks or damage to the brake lines?

 

Parking Brake:

Is the parking brake functioning properly?

 

III. Tires

Tire Pressure:

Is the tire pressure correct for all tires (including spare)?

 

Tire Tread Depth:

Is the tire tread depth sufficient?

 

Tire Condition:

Are there any signs of damage or wear to the tires?

 

Wheel Alignment:

Does the car pull to one side?

 

Tire Rotation:

When were the tires last rotated?

 

IV. Lights

Actionable Item

Tick if Yes

Comment if any

A
B
C
1

Headlights

 
 
2

Are the headlights working properly (high and low beams)?

 
3

Taillights

 
 
4

Are the taillights working properly?

 
5

Brake Lights

 
 
6

Are the brake lights working properly?

 
7

Turn Signals

 
 
8

Are the turn signals working properly?

 
9

Hazard Lights

 
 
10

Are the hazard lights working properly?

 
11

Interior Lights

 
 
12

Are the interior lights working properly?

 

V. Fluids

Power Steering Fluid:

Is the power steering fluid level correct?

 

Transmission Fluid:

When was the transmission fluid last changed?

 

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Is the windshield washer fluid reservoir full?

 

VI. Other

Windshield Wipers:

Are the windshield wipers in good condition?

 

Horn:

Is the horn working properly?

 

Mirrors:

Are the mirrors properly adjusted?

 

Seatbelts:

Are the seatbelts in good condition and functioning properly?

 

Suspension:

Are there any unusual noises or handling issues?

 

Filters (Cabin Air):

When was the cabin air filter last changed?

 

Form Template Instructions

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This form is a Car Maintenance Checklist. It's designed to help car owners (or mechanics) systematically inspect and maintain their vehicles. Here's a breakdown of the insights it provides:

  • Comprehensive Coverage: The checklist covers all the major systems of a car, from the engine and brakes to tires, lights, and fluids. It even includes often-overlooked items like the horn, mirrors, and seatbelts. This thoroughness is crucial for preventative maintenance and identifying potential problems early.  
  • Organized by System: Grouping related checks together (e.g., all brake-related items) makes the inspection process more efficient and less prone to omissions. This structure also helps in understanding how different components work together.
  • Focus on Key Areas: The questions are targeted at the most critical aspects of each system. For example, under "Brakes," it asks about pad life, rotor condition, fluid levels, and lines, all of which are essential for safe braking.
  • Action-Oriented Questions: Most questions are phrased in a way that prompts a direct action or assessment. "When was the last oil change?" leads to checking records or scheduling one. "Are the belts in good condition?" requires a visual inspection.
  • Prompts for Record Keeping: The form encourages documenting when certain maintenance tasks were performed (oil change, coolant flush, etc.). This is vital for tracking service history and adhering to recommended intervals.
  • Emphasis on Safety: Many checks directly relate to safety, such as brakes, lights, tires, and seatbelts. Regular use of this checklist can contribute significantly to road safety.
  • Useful for DIYers and Professionals: While car owners can use this checklist for personal maintenance, it's equally valuable for mechanics performing routine service. It provides a standardized procedure and ensures no critical areas are missed.
  • Preventative Maintenance Focus: The checklist's primary purpose is to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs by catching issues in their early stages. Regular checks can extend the life of the vehicle and improve its reliability.
 

Limitations (and how to improve them):

  • Subjectivity: Some questions rely on visual inspection ("Are the belts in good condition?"). Adding more specific criteria (e.g., "Check belts for cracks deeper than X mm") could improve accuracy.
  • Lack of Specifics: The form doesn't specify how to perform some checks (e.g., how to check brake pad life). Adding brief instructions or links to resources could be helpful.

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