Every 6 Months Car Inspection Checklist
Maintain your vehicle's safety and longevity with this comprehensive 6-month inspection covering tires, brakes, fluids, and electrical systems.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A bi-annual inspection is the backbone of preventative vehicle care. This routine allows you to catch issues like slow coolant leaks, uneven tire wear, or a weakening battery before they lead to a roadside emergency. Most of these tasks are visual or simple measurements that require no specialized mechanical training.
For a DIY enthusiast, this checklist typically takes 45 to 90 minutes to complete thoroughly. If you prefer a professional shop, they may perform a multi-point inspection in about 30 to 60 minutes, often bundled with an oil change or tire rotation service.
Printable Checklist
A clean, scannable checklist view. (You can export/print from the sidebar.)
| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Pressure (incl. spare) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door-jamb PSI | Inflate to spec |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | Above 2/32 inch; even wear | Replace tires or align |
| Engine Oil Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Between Min/Max marks | Top off or change oil |
| Coolant Level/Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | Full in reservoir; bright color | Top off; check for leaks |
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 2 min | Above 'Low' line; clear amber | Inspect pads; top off |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Within range on dipstick | Top off; check pump/hoses |
| Windshield Washer Fluid | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Reservoir is full | Refill with seasonal mix |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No white/blue corrosion | Clean with wire brush |
| Engine Air Filter | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Clean; no debris/clogs | Replace filter |
| Wiper Blade Condition | Required | DIY | 2 min | No streaks or torn rubber | Replace blades |
| Exterior Lights (All) | Required | DIY | 5 min | All bulbs functioning | Replace bulb or fuse |
| Serpentine Belt | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Schedule replacement |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 15 min | At least 3mm remaining | Replace brake pads |
| CV Boot Inspection | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No tears or grease leakage | Replace boot or axle |
| Exhaust System | Optional | DIY | 5 min | No loud rumbles or rust holes | Repair exhaust leak |
| Horn Operation | Required | DIY | 1 min | Clear, loud sound | Check fuse or relay |
| Dashboard Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 1 min | No active MIL/Check Engine | Scan for OBD-II codes |
| Cabin Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 10 min | No dust buildup or odors | Replace filter |
To use this checklist effectively, start from the exterior and move inward to the engine bay, finishing with the interior and underbody. Use a flashlight even in daylight to spot slow leaks or hairline cracks in rubber hoses.
Keep a dedicated folder or digital log of every 6-month check. Consistent documentation increases the resale value of your vehicle and helps you track the rate of wear on components like tires and brakes.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Completing this checklist is a proactive step toward vehicle safety. Follow these final tips to wrap up your session:
- Record the date and mileage in your service log.
- Dispose of any used fluids (oil, coolant) at an authorized recycling center.
- Reset the maintenance light if your vehicle has a timed reminder.
- If you found uneven tire wear, schedule a professional wheel alignment.
- Check for any active manufacturer recalls online using your VIN.
- Clean the battery area with a baking soda and water mix if corrosion was present.
- Lubricate door hinges and hood latches with white lithium grease.
- Browse our Tire Maintenance guides for deeper detail on wheel care.
- Check out the Monthly Checklist for more frequent safety tasks.
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FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.