Master Car Maintenance Checklist
A comprehensive guide to essential car maintenance, covering tires, fluids, brakes, and electrical systems to ensure vehicle safety and longevity.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
Regular vehicle maintenance is the most effective way to extend the life of your car and maintain its resale value. This checklist provides a structured approach to inspecting the core mechanical and safety systems of any standard internal combustion vehicle.
For a DIY enthusiast, a full inspection typically takes 45 to 90 minutes. If performed at a professional shop, the same inspection may be completed faster due to specialized lifts and diagnostic tools, though it may cost between $50 and $150 depending on the depth of the 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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Level | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level between marks; no burnt smell | Top off or change oil/filter |
| Tire Pressure (All 5) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door-jamb PSI sticker | Inflate to spec; check for leaks |
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 2 min | Level between Min/Max; clear color | Top off; check pads for wear |
| Coolant Level/Condition | Required | DIY | 3 min | Reservoir at 'Full' when cold | Top off with correct mix; pressure test |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No corrosion; tight connections | Clean with wire brush; tighten |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 5 min | At least 2/32" (4/32" preferred) | Replace tires; check alignment |
| Air Filter Inspection | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Filter is white/grey; no debris | Replace filter element |
| Wiper Blade Condition | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | No streaks; rubber is pliable | Replace wiper blades |
| Headlights/High Beams | Required | DIY | 2 min | Both sides illuminate brightly | Replace bulb or check fuse |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 15 min | At least 3mm of friction material | Schedule brake pad replacement |
| Serpentine Belt | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Replace belt and tensioner |
| Washer Fluid Level | Optional | DIY | 1 min | Reservoir is full | Refill with seasonal fluid |
| Turn Signals/Hazards | Required | DIY | 2 min | All corners flash at normal rate | Replace bulb or relay |
| Transmission Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Pink/Red color; no burnt smell | Service transmission; check leaks |
| Spare Tire Condition | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Inflated; no dry rot visible | Inflate or replace if aged |
| Exhaust System | Recommended | Shop | 10 min | No loud roars or visible holes | Repair leaks or replace muffler |
| Cabin Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 10 min | No mold smell; filter is clean | Replace filter |
| Brake Pedal Feel | Required | DIY | 1 min | Firm; does not sink to floor | Bleed brakes; check master cylinder |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Level within range; no whining | Top off; check pump/hoses |
| CV Boot Inspection | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No tears or grease leakage | Replace CV axle or boot |
Use this table as a primary guide during your monthly or quarterly inspections. Check off each item as you go, and use the 'If failed' column to prioritize your weekend repairs or shop visits.
Consistency is key to vehicle longevity. Keeping a printed copy of this table in your glovebox allows you to track changes in fluid consumption or tire wear over time, which can signal emerging problems before they lead to a breakdown.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
After completing your checklist, ensure you document your findings to maintain a complete service history for your vehicle.
- Keep all receipts for parts and professional labor.
- Dispose of used oil and coolant at an authorized recycling center.
- Reset the maintenance light on your dashboard if you performed an oil change.
- Note any odd vibrations felt during the road test for future diagnosis.
- Check for any active manufacturer recalls using your VIN.
- Ensure all fluid caps are tightened before closing the hood.
- Wash the undercarriage after winter to remove corrosive road salt.
- Browse similar checklists like Tires or Battery for deeper dives.
Related Checklists
More checklists with similar tags (mileage, interval, season, tasks).
FAQ
Common questions about this checklist.
Start from the complete car maintenance checklist, then narrow down by mileage, interval, and season.