Annual Car Maintenance Schedule Checklist
Keep your vehicle running smoothly with this comprehensive annual car maintenance checklist. Covers fluids, tires, brakes, and safety systems for all major vehicle types.
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| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level between Min/Max marks | Top off or change oil |
| Tire Pressure (PSI) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door-jamb sticker | Inflate to correct PSI |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | At least 2/32" (4/32" preferred) | Replace tires |
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Fluid is clear and at Max line | Inspect for leaks; flush |
| Coolant Level/Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | Full in reservoir; no debris | Top off or flush system |
| Air Filter Inspection | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | Filter is white/grey, not black | Replace air filter |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | No corrosion or white powder | Clean with wire brush |
| Wiper Blades | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No streaks or torn rubber | Replace wiper inserts |
| Exterior Lights | Required | DIY | 10 min | All bulbs (high/low/signal) work | Replace bulb or fuse |
| Serpentine Belt | Required | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No cracks, fraying, or squealing | Replace belt immediately |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 20 min | At least 3mm of material left | Schedule brake service |
| Cabin Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 15 min | No debris or musty odors | Replace filter |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Level is correct; no whining | Top off; check pump/hoses |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | Red/Pink color; no burnt smell | Service transmission |
| Suspension Boots | Recommended | Shop | 15 min | No tears or leaking grease | Replace CV boot/joint |
| Exhaust System | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No loud noises or visible holes | Repair exhaust leaks |
| Spare Tire Pressure | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Inflated to sidewall max PSI | Inflate spare tire |
| Windshield Fluid | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Reservoir is full | Refill with washer fluid |
Use this table as your primary guide during your annual inspection. We recommend printing this page and marking off each item as you complete it to ensure nothing is missed. If you find multiple 'Fail' items, prioritize safety-critical systems like brakes and tires first.
Keep a log of your findings in your glovebox. This documentation is invaluable for maintaining your car's warranty and proving its service history to future buyers. If you are uncomfortable with any task, a professional inspection is a small price to pay for peace of mind.