Post-Service Quality Checklist
Ensure your vehicle service was performed correctly with this post-service quality checklist. Verify fluids, dashboard lights, and mechanical performance before leaving the shop.
Overview
Summary and key details for this checklist.
A post-service inspection is the most effective way to protect your investment and ensure your vehicle's safety. Even the most reputable shops can occasionally miss a detail, such as a loose hose clamp or a forgotten tool under the hood. This guide provides a structured way to verify the work performed.
Performing this check typically takes 15–20 minutes for a visual inspection and an additional 10 minutes for a short road test. If you are at a professional shop, it is best to perform the static checks (fluids and lights) in their parking lot before you drive away.
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) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oil Level Check | Required | DIY | 2 min | Level is between Min/Max marks | Add oil or notify shop of overfill |
| Oil Fill Cap | Required | DIY | 1 min | Cap is present and tightened | Install cap immediately |
| Dashboard Warning Lights | Required | DIY | 1 min | No Check Engine or Oil lights on | Ask shop to scan for codes |
| Maintenance Reset | Recommended | DIY | 1 min | Service reminder is cleared | Reset via dash menu or ask shop |
| Coolant Level | Required | DIY | 2 min | Level in reservoir is at 'Full' | Top off (when cool) or check for leaks |
| Brake Fluid Level | Required | DIY | 1 min | Fluid is at the Max line | Check for leaks; do not drive if low |
| Wheel Nut Torque | Required | Shop | 5 min | Lugs are tight (if tires were removed) | Have shop re-torque immediately |
| Tire Pressures | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | All tires match door-jamb PSI | Adjust pressure to spec |
| Drain Plug Leakage | Required | DIY | 2 min | No drips under oil pan area | Tighten plug or replace washer |
| Brake Pedal Feel | Required | DIY | 1 min | Pedal is firm, not spongy | Bleed brakes; check for air in lines |
| Engine Noise | Required | DIY | 3 min | No new knocking or ticking sounds | Shut off engine; inspect belt/oil |
| Washer Fluid | Optional | DIY | 1 min | Reservoir is full | Refill with seasonal fluid |
| Air Filter Housing | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Clips are secure and housing closed | Re-seat filter and snap clips |
| Battery Terminals | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Cables are tight and corrosion-free | Clean and tighten terminals |
| Drive Belt Condition | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | No squealing; belt is centered | Adjust tension or check alignment |
| Invoice Accuracy | Required | DIY | 5 min | Parts charged match parts installed | Dispute discrepancies with advisor |
| Old Parts Inspection | Optional | DIY | 3 min | Requested old parts are shown | Ask why parts weren't saved |
| Road Test (Vibration) | Required | DIY | 10 min | No steering wheel shake at speed | Re-balance tires |
| Road Test (Tracking) | Required | DIY | 5 min | Vehicle drives straight | Check wheel alignment |
| Cabin Cleanliness | Optional | DIY | 1 min | No grease on seats or steering wheel | Ask shop for a professional cleaning |
Use this table as your primary guide when picking up your vehicle. Start with the engine bay checks while the car is stationary, then move to the interior to check the dashboard and paperwork. Finally, perform a short drive around the block to ensure mechanical harmony.
If any 'Required' item fails, do not leave the service center. It is much easier to have a technician address a loose bolt or a fluid spill while the car is still on-site than to return a day later.
Notes
Extra context, cautions, and helpful tips.
Maintaining a detailed record of your service history is just as important as the service itself. Follow these final steps to close out your maintenance task.
- Keep a physical or digital folder for all repair receipts.
- Note the mileage and date of service in your vehicle logbook.
- Dispose of any oily rags or old fluids at a certified recycling center.
- Check your driveway for leaks the morning after a service.
- Verify that your service advisor updated your digital service record (if applicable).
- Double-check that your locking wheel nut key was returned to the glovebox.
- Listen for any unusual smells (burning oil) during the first 50 miles.
- Ensure all plastic engine covers were reinstalled correctly.
- Browse our Paperwork tags for tips on managing service records.
- Check out Inspection guides for deeper dives into specific systems.
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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.