How a Vehicle Inspection Helps You Maintain Your Car

Routine car maintenance inspections are an essential part of a long-term savings strategy when it comes to maintaining your vehicle. Both present the opportunity to find problems before they start, lowering costs over the life of your vehicle and saving you the hassle of unexpected breakdowns. But does anyone really know what’s involved in an inspection, which elements of your vehicle are tested and what kinds of things you can do yourself at home to keep on top of good car health?

Here, we’ll break down car maintenance inspections, and show you the ways you can stay in tune with the needs of your vehicle to avoid unnecessary troubles down the road. We’ll also share details on the free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service that all AAA Members receive as part of their membership.

Why car inspections are important

There’s no substitute for certified car care and inspections. And because you can’t judge a vehicle’s inner condition on outward appearances, many car owners make the mistake of skipping their regular inspections.

Think of inspections as protection of an investment and preventive maintenance is a practical way to save money over time. By checking to ensure that the critical components of your vehicle are running efficiently, you’re reducing the likeliness of unexpected and more costly repairs, if not the replacement of complete parts.  

How often do I need a car inspection?

So, how often should you have your vehicle inspected? Even if you live in a state with no mandatory inspections, it’s a good rule of thumb to bring your vehicle into a certified technician for comprehensive inspection no less than once a year.

A few factors that might require more frequent inspections include:

• Vehicle Age: Some newer model cars have automated maintenance reminders that take driving behaviors into account. For older vehicles void of this function, it’s a good idea to have your car inspected at every oil change.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Each automotive manufacturer has maintenance recommendations that can vary by make and model. Your manufacturer sets these guidelines to give you the best performance possible. Check your car’s owner’s manual for full details on recommended inspections.
• Driving Conditions: Depending on driving conditions, you may need to increase the frequency of scheduled maintenance and inspections. Extreme temperatures can have more of an impact on fluids, for example, and when left unchecked, can amount to problems quickly. 

What’s included in a car inspection?

There are two primary types of inspections: Vehicle state inspections and maintenance inspections. For states that require annual inspections as part of vehicle registration, horns, wipers, mirrors, lights, window tint, seatbelts, tire condition and brakes are all checked to ensure your vehicle is safe to operate and aligned with emissions regulations.

A standard maintenance inspection examines a lot of the same components as state-required safety inspections but also includes a thorough evaluation of the following:

• Power Steering and Suspension Components – A steering and suspension check is performed during a maintenance inspection to ensure that your car is safe and comfortable for driving over bumpy roads. While the suspension system connects your vehicle to its wheels, the power steering system allows you to safely guide the vehicle on the road. Gray or dark-colored steering fluid identified during inspection could indicate internal steering problems.
• Fluid Levels – Brake and transmission fluids are commonly checked during a maintenance inspection. A low fluid level on the brakes may indicate a leak which would make it harder for your vehicle to come to a stop. Transmission fluids help ensure low strain on your gears, and essentially protect your transmission’s gears and clutch packs. Transmission fluid replacement may be necessary if your technician notices brown or burnt-smelling fluid.
• Air Filters – Fuel filters and cabin air filters are commonly checked during a maintenance inspection. While the cabin air filter shields you from breathing in dirt, dust, pollen and smog via your car’s air conditioning system, the fuel filter screens dirt and rust particles from entering your fuel. A technician will examine both filters for debris and recommend replacement as needed.
• Belts and Hoses – Almost all in-depth inspections will check your car’s critical belts and hoses for cracks, fraying and leaks. Some of the most important hoses in your car connect to the power steering, cooling system, fuel lines and radiator, where belts such as the timing belt and serpentine belt provide power to major components. 
• Exhaust System – Your vehicle’s exhaust system eliminates gases that form in the combustion chamber. When the exhaust system is not functioning properly, you lose fuel efficiency and power. A technician will look for any signs of corrosion and damage during inspection by examining the areas between the exhaust manifold and tail pipe. The parts in between these two areas, including the muffler and catalytic converter, are also given a comprehensive visual examination for any damages.
• Battery – During inspection, your technician will test your battery to determine the amount of life left and will examine the battery terminals to ensure they are free of corrosion and dirt which can cause a short circuit.

Aside from money savings, vehicle preservation and the prevention of breakdowns, a regular maintenance inspection gives you extra peace of mind on the roads. Whether you’re taking a long-distance road trip or driving daily to work, knowing that the major components of your vehicle are operating properly can be eliminate worry and improve the quality of your commutes.  

DIY: What car systems can I inspect myself?

If you’re the DIY type, there are a few items you may be able to inspect on your own at home to save a little time and money.

• Fluids - Engine oil, brake fluid and power steering fluid can be easily checked with the engine off and your car parked on a level surface. Popular Mechanics is a good starting place if you’re looking for information that will teach you how to check fluids for the first time.
• Tires – If you have a tire pressure gauge and a penny, you’re well-equipped to do a basic tire check at home. To measure tire tread depth, use the “quarter test,” ensuring it never goes below 1/16^th of an inch. AAA recommends replacing tires once the tread depth reaches 4/32nds of an inch, as this is as this is when braking distances have already begun to significantly increase. To check tire pressure, wait for the tire to cool then remove the valve stem cap and press the gauge to the stem. Match the gauge reading to the recommended PSI of your tires listed on the inside panel of the driver’s door or your owner’s manual.
• Wiper Blades – If your wipers are dry, cracked or streaking, it may be time for a replacement. Fortunately, wiper blades are available at nearly every auto parts store and are easy to replace at home. Most wipers come with installation instructions on the package, but if you’re new to replacing wipers, you can visit sites like Family Handyman for installation tips or ask for assistance from the staff at your favorite auto parts retailer. Always know the correct size and type of wipers you need as a first step to getting started.
• Car Battery – Car battery testing gauges are relatively affordable and easy to use at home. A great way to keep your vehicle working reliably is to test your battery at least twice per year, and if you can do so from home, that’s a real time-saving advantage. Suppose your voltmeter or multimeter indicates a weak or dying battery. In that case, you can purchase and install a new battery yourself. AAA has you covered by offering convenient options for purchasing a new AAA car battery – tailored to your needs. You can get one on the road through AAA Roadside Assistance, at your local AAA Owned Car Care Center, AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, or at a participating NAPA Auto Parts store near you.

Exclusive benefits for Members: free inspection

AAA Members can take advantage of a free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service at multiple AAA Owned Car Care Centers or at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities nationwide where a professional technician will examine components most often responsible for a breakdown.

In addition to a free vehicle inspection with any paid service, AAA Members also receive 10% off repair labor (up to $75) at AAA Owned Car Care locations and AAA Approved Auto facilities. Plus, AAA Owned Car Care locations provide customers with a 36-month/36,000-mile warranty on work performed, and AAA Approved Auto facilities provide a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty on work done.