What is the sequence for a vehicle walk-around inspection?
2 Answers
The sequence for a vehicle walk-around inspection is to check around the vehicle counterclockwise. Before getting into the car, observe whether there are people or obstacles around, and check if there are any potholes or uneven surfaces on the road beneath the vehicle. The objectives of the walk-around inspection are: 1. Vehicle exterior: Check if there are any obvious scratches or dents on the exterior, especially around the front bumper. If there has been a collision, the owner should promptly arrange for exterior repainting. 2. Brake discs: The surface of the brake discs should be smooth. If there are obvious grooves, it may indicate that the vehicle was driven on gravel roads, causing small stones to get stuck between the brake discs and the fenders, continuously grinding the surface of the discs and creating grooves. 3. Tires: Inspect the tires for any visible damage, scratches, and ensure that the tire pressure meets safety standards.
A pre-drive walk-around check is an essential habit for me. I always start from the driver's side—before opening the door, I crouch to inspect underneath the car, ensuring no small animals or debris are hidden to avoid accidents upon ignition. Then, I move clockwise around the vehicle, carefully checking each tire's pressure; a gentle kick helps gauge firmness, and I look for cuts or embedded nails. Next, I proceed to the front to confirm the headlights and taillights are intact, free of cracks or dirt that could impair visibility. The body inspection includes checking for scratches or dents, especially around easily overlooked areas like side mirrors and door handles. At the rear, I give the trunk a push to ensure it's securely closed, preventing items from slipping out. The whole process takes about two minutes, and this habit has helped me spot issues multiple times, such as tire leaks or brake light failures, allowing timely repairs to reduce driving risks. Safety always comes first—even when in a hurry, skipping steps is never an option.
