We are all exposed to the importance of having a reliable vehicle. However, with so many intricate moving parts in modern vehicles, trucks, and SUVs, it's not unusual to have underlying issues you're unaware of.
Most auto dealers, mechanics, and service centres provide a multi-point inspection to catch any problems before they cause a breakdown. This service includes a thorough examination of nearly every element of your vehicle. Other names include a courtesy check, vehicle evaluation, maintenance examination, or pre-purchase inspection.
It makes a difference as a vehicle owner to do your research and plan, whether you're looking for auto insurance or deciding when to get a multi-point inspection. Here's everything you need to know about the latter.
What Is the Benefit Of A Multi-Point Inspection?
There are numerous reasons to have a multi-point inspection performed. For starters, it is an important component of preventative car maintenance. Knowing the state of your vehicle can help you detect and identify future problems before they cause threatening failures or costly repairs.
Furthermore, most multi-point inspections rate your vehicle on a scale (green = good; yellow = needs repair soon; red = needs repair now). It offers you the details you need to schedule and cost estimates for future maintenance.
What Is Inspected at A Multi-Point Inspection?
Based on where you take your automobiles for service, the particular elements of your inspection may differ. However, the majority of these constituents are likely to be evaluated:
The engine compartment
- Engine oil: In gasoline-powered vehicles, oil lubricates internal engine parts, reducing friction and wear. A specialist will ensure that your oil is clean and at the proper level during checking.
- Coolant: The cooling system in your car keeps the engine from overheating, which can cause serious damage.
- Power steering fluid: Like brake fluid, this hydraulic fluid is used to generate the pressure required to run your vehicle's power steering rack.
- Air filter: An engine's air filter prevents debris from entering the engine. It may become clogged over time, reducing engine performance like any other filter.
- Drive belts: Rubber serpentine belts power a variety of engine bay components, including the power steering pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor.
- Hoses: An engine bay contains rubber and metal hoses that transport fluids to your car's engine and other essential parts. The technologist will look for any leaks that could lead to future problems during an inspection.
- Battery: A battery provides the electricity required to start and run your vehicle. A technician can provide an overview of the overall health of your battery by performing a battery voltage test.
- Washer fluid: Most drivers have filled their washer fluid tank before. This quick check will ensure that you have enough fluid to clean your windscreen if necessary.
Equipment for Safety
- Seat belts: Seat belts and other safety restraints will be tested for proper operation.
- Airbags: A professional may use a vehicle code sensor to check your car's airbag system for problems.
- Horn: A quick honk is required to confirm that your horn is operational.
- Brakes: The status of your brakes has a significant impact on your vehicle's stopping power. Brake pads will be examined for wear, and rotors will be examined for warping, rust, or other damage.
Interior/Exterior
- Lighting: Headlights Taillights. Signals for turning. They should be all glowing brightly. Otherwise, the bulbs can be modified.
- Wipers: When the rain begins to fall, cracked or broken windshield wiper blades can cause a streaky view.
- Floor mats: It may seem strange, but poorly installed floor mats have caused serious accidents in the past.
- Cabin air filter: Just as your engine air filter cleans the air that enters your engine, a cabin air filter prevents dust and debris from entering your car's vents. It should be replaced if it is dirty or clogged.
- Air conditioning: Your air conditioner will be examined to ensure it is blowing cold air.
- Engine performance: Analyzing the ultimate efficiency of your engine is one of the most significant checks.
- Transmission/clutch: Your transmission's job is to transfer power from the engine to the wheels.
- Differential/transfer case: A differential on your car's axle helps split power from the transmission to both drive wheels.
- Driveshaft/U-joints/CV joints: These components connect the transmission to the differential in your vehicle.
- Fuel lines/brake lines: Metal fuel lines transport gasoline from your car's gas tank to the engine, whereas brake lines transport hydraulic fluid from under the hood to your vehicle's four corners.
- Exhaust: A technician will inspect your exhaust system and muffler for leaks or damage. The increased noise indicates that something is wrong.
Suspension
- Shocks/struts/springs: These items, an important part of your suspension system, allow you to travel seamlessly over bumps and surface defects in the road. They will be inspected for leaks, cracks, and other signs of wear and tear (like a rough, bouncy ride).
- Ball joints/bushings: These items allow your wheels to turn seamlessly from side to side while also allowing shock absorber components to move up and down.
- Alignment: A computerized alignment device will determine if all four of your wheels are set to the proper angle.
- Tires: Your tyres will be inspected to ensure they are properly inflated and have plenty of tread remaining.
A Multi-Point Inspection Takes How Long?
As you can probably tell from the point above, a thorough multi-point examination can take several hours. However, the time it takes will be determined by how thorough the inspection is. Before you drop your car off, ask the shop for a list of what will be examined and an estimate of how long it will take to complete the job.
What Is the Cost of a Multi-Point Inspection?
The price of your multi-point inspection will also be determined by how thoroughly the job is completed. A quick courtesy check, for example, may be provided for free in some stores, but you shouldn't expect more than a brief visual examination of some of the components outlined above. Meanwhile, a thorough inspection with diagnostic testing may cost you $200 or more. An intensive examination can undoubtedly be worth the extra cost. Adjust your expectations accordingly, whichever choice you select.
When Should a Multi-Point Inspection Be Performed?
There is never a bad time to schedule a multi-point vehicle inspection. Getting your car inspected every year or two will help keep it in a top operating state. However, it would help if you considered booking an evaluation before events such as:
- Purchasing a used car.
- Going on a long road trip.
- Seasonal changes.
- Selling a vehicle.