Oil Change as a Part of Your 21-Point Inspection

How far could you really get with a car that you never had inspected, maintained, or repaired on a regular basis? One by one, your dashboard lights would click on. You will hear strange sounds and strange jolts and vibrations would gradually increase over time. The acceleration would decrease, while the timing required to apply the brakes and actually stop will increase. All of these processes are dangerous not only for the life of your vehicle, but also for the lives of those who travel in it. It is not worth the risk.

One of the most frequent maintenance services that your car will need is an oil change. But, it cannot survive on new motor oil alone. So, many professional garages offer a 21-point inspection that helps drivers stay ahead of any breakdowns, leaks, or potential trouble that is lurking under the hood or under the car. The 21-point inspection covers 12 major categories of car maintenance by checking and thoroughly inspecting each to multiple points of performance safety. They include:

- Tires for pressure and tread
- Brake components, front and rear
- Suspension and shocks
- Battery and cables
- Horn function
- Air filter
- All drive belts and pulleys
- Cooling system components
- Antifreeze fluid process and condition
- Exterior lights
- Windshield blades
- Windshield, power steering, transmission, differential, and brake fluid levels, leaks and performance

Yet, these are only a part of an inspection that can come with your oil change. There is no requirement for the mechanics to perform repair. You aren't required to accept the work at that time, if you cannot afford it or are in a time crunch; however, the garage will offer you a detailed repair suggestion statement that is meant to keep you informed of what your vehicle needs now or will need in the near future. This process cuts down on future surprise damages or the increased expense of prolonged repair.

The results of a 21-point inspection are a reminder that an oil change every 3,000 or 5,000 miles isn't the only way to maintain the safety and function of your vehicle. When you have the opportunity to improve your car's performance by staying abreast of its condition, you prolong its life and your dependable transportation. Without all of the care of every component from the engine to the tires, you won't be going anywhere.