Car Service Checklist
A comprehensive, step-by-step car service checklist to ensure vehicle safety, longevity, and performance. Perfect for DIY enthusiasts and those preparing for a professional shop visit.
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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 marks; no burnt smell | Top off or change oil |
| Tire Pressure (PSI) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door-jamb sticker | Inflate to correct PSI |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 20 min | At least 3mm of friction material | Replace brake pads |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No white/blue corrosion; tight fit | Clean with wire brush |
| Engine Air Filter | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Filter is white/grey; no debris | Replace filter |
| Coolant Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Between Min/Max on reservoir | Top off (engine MUST be cool) |
| Wiper Blades | Optional | DIY | 5 min | No streaks or torn rubber | Replace blades |
| Brake Fluid Condition | Required | Shop/DIY | 5 min | Clear/Amber color; at Max line | Flush system or top off |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | Above 2/32 inch (use penny test) | Replace tires |
| Serpentine Belt | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Replace belt |
| Headlights/Signals | Required | DIY | 5 min | All bulbs illuminate clearly | Replace bulb or fuse |
| Cabin Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 15 min | No moldy smell or heavy dust | Replace filter |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | Red/Pink color; no burnt smell | Service transmission |
| Exhaust System | Recommended | Shop | 15 min | No loud leaks or heavy rust holes | Repair or replace section |
| Suspension Bushings | Optional | Shop | 20 min | No visible cracks or missing rubber | Replace control arms/bushings |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Level is correct; no whining noise | Top off or check for leaks |
| CV Boot Inspection | Recommended | Shop | 15 min | No grease leaking; no tears | Replace CV axle or boot |
| Spare Tire Pressure | Optional | DIY | 5 min | Inflated to sidewall PSI | Inflate to spec |
| Windshield Fluid | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Reservoir is full | Refill with washer fluid |
| Dashboard Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 2 min | No Check Engine or ABS lights on | Scan with OBD-II tool |
Use the table above as your primary guide during the inspection. We recommend printing this page and marking each row as 'Pass' or 'Fail' to keep a physical record of your vehicle's health over time.
If you identify multiple 'Fail' items, prioritize safety-critical components like brakes, tires, and steering before addressing comfort items like cabin filters or wiper blades. Consistent documentation helps in identifying recurring issues.