Yearly Car Maintenance Checklist
A comprehensive annual guide to vehicle health, covering fluids, brakes, tires, and safety systems to ensure reliability and longevity for the year ahead.
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| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Level/Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level between marks; not milky/black | Top off or schedule oil change |
| Brake Fluid Level/Color | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level at 'Full'; clear/amber color | Flush if dark; check for leaks |
| Coolant Level & Clarity | Required | DIY | 5 min | Level in reservoir; no oily film | Top off (when cold); pressure test |
| Tire Tread Depth | Required | DIY | 10 min | At least 4/32" depth across all tires | Replace tires if below 2/32" |
| Tire Pressure (incl. Spare) | Required | DIY | 10 min | Matches door-jamb PSI sticker | Inflate to spec; check for nails |
| Brake Pad Thickness | Required | Shop/DIY | 20 min | At least 3mm of friction material | Schedule brake pad replacement |
| Battery Terminals/Voltage | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | No corrosion; >12.4V (engine off) | Clean terminals; charge or replace |
| Engine Air Filter | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Filter is white/grey; no debris | Replace filter |
| Cabin Air Filter | Optional | DIY | 10 min | No moldy smell or heavy dust | Replace filter |
| Wiper Blade Condition | Required | DIY | 5 min | No streaks or torn rubber | Replace blades |
| Serpentine Belt Condition | Required | DIY | 10 min | No cracks, fraying, or glazing | Replace belt immediately |
| Exterior Lights (All) | Required | DIY | 5 min | All bulbs illuminate (High/Low/Turn) | Replace bulbs or check fuses |
| Suspension Boots/Joints | Recommended | Shop | 15 min | No torn rubber or leaking grease | Replace CV boot or ball joint |
| Exhaust System Rust/Leaks | Recommended | Shop/DIY | 10 min | No loud noises or heavy rust holes | Repair or replace exhaust section |
| Power Steering Fluid | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Level correct; no burnt smell | Top off; check pump for leaks |
| Transmission Fluid Level | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | Level correct; red/pink (if dipstick) | Consult shop for fluid service |
| Windshield for Chips/Cracks | Required | DIY | 5 min | No cracks in driver's line of sight | Repair chips before they spread |
| Wheel Lug Nut Torque | Required | DIY | 10 min | Tightened to manufacturer spec | Torque to spec with torque wrench |
Use this table as your primary guide during the inspection. Check off each item as you go, and use the 'If failed' column to prioritize your weekend repairs or shop visits.
Consistency is key. Performing these checks at the same time every year (such as every Spring) ensures you never miss a critical safety update.