Vehicle Inspection

A vehicle inspection should be done at least once a year and even if you're a person who hates do it yourself auto repair, it is easy to go through this procedure and find out if some parts of your vehicle needs fixing. If necessary you can then decide whether you want to go to an auto repair shop or do the car repair yourself.

You should check your vehicles fuel system to find out if it functions properly. This inspection also includes the built in computer controls. You also have to check the general engine performance, ignition system - computer controls included, as well as all the instruments and gauges.

Then do a check of your vehicles lights the car horn and mirrors. Your seat belts also have to be checked - security inspection is crucial in any vehicle. You should also perform a car body evaluation which encompasses both the auto interior as well as exterior. Are there many scratches, cracks and other things that should be fixed? Even if it don't impact your cars functions, a nice looking vehicle is much more comfortable to drive.

Your car's steering and suspension system should undergo a careful inspection. This also includes your vehicles shocks, struts and CV boots where applicable. Your auto's tires are some of the most exposed parts there are, so it is important to inspect them for smooth areas or nails etc. In the most extreme cases neglected tires can represent a severe accident risk. Remember to include checking the tire spare when you inspect your car's tires.

Another potential accident creator is unbalanced or bad aligned wheels. Therefore check your auto's wheel balance and alignment. If you have a front wheel drive vehicle, all four wheels on your vehicle should be checked for balance. Your motorcar's windshield wipers and washers, air condition or heather system, de-froster as well as all fluids contained in you car.

The battery and electrical system also have to be checked and this should also include alternator output. Your vehicles braking system is a critical part of your auto's safety system and should therefore be checked very carefully. A car braking system inspection always includes drums, rotors as well as electronic and hydraulic components. The components of your car's cooling system should be inspected and in connection with this a pressure test should be included. And last but not least; don't forget to check your vehicles emission control system and it's components.

Whether you own a VW, Cadillac or BMW; if you follow this check-list or procedure of checking your vehicle from time to time you can save much money by detecting damages early enough to get it fixed while the damage is minimal. What this means for your auto safety is probably worth even more than the money you'll save.

Terje Ellingsen - EzineArticles Expert Author

Terje Brooks Ellingsen is a writer and internet publisher. He runs the website cheap-used-cars.w-eland.com.Terje gives advice and helps people with automotive issues like do it yourself auto repair and how to find a cheap BMW and other used cars online.