My Vehicle Inspection Routine

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[@fernandoaguila8901]

Its good to have a routine for vehicle inspections. I always start with recommend services at All data or Mitchell. I also start from the bottom of the vehicle and work my way up. Knock off the drain plug let that drain while I check brakes and suspension. Then lower the vehicle half way to do tire rotation. Then bring the vehicle all the way down to check underhood and lights. There is no wrong way to start. Just stay consistent. Great Video. Keep up the good work. 👍👍👍

[@86753091974]

Always looking for a better way myself too. But I do like to look at fluid levels first before looking at undercar in case I need to look for those leaks if needed.

[@sasquatchrosefarts]

As long as every fluid gets checked, apart from diffs..... You're ok. Then shake every wheel and check brakes. Shops don't want to prevent problems, so they don't sell electrical cleaning packages for harnesses and ground bolts...... But I would sell customers on that.

[@whydoubother5219]

That’s inefficient, you should check under the hood before you raise the vehicle, that way when it’s up in the air and the drain plug is out you can send the estimate to the advisor while you’re working. The way you’re doing it the oil change is done before you even send the estimate back. They should be selling any additional work while you’re draining oil

[@ohcamsrazor1966]

Always funny to hear different terminology from US to Australia Top off = Top up Oil pan = sump Trunk= Boot Hood= bonnet Lug nut= wheel nuts Standard trans= manual .

[@midwestapprentice1904]

Sump is still used quite a bit at least where I am in the US and some people still refer to it as standard but its usually older guys

[@nomamesguey100]

Pretty much how I go about my inspections, I do a battery test on all vehicles, which I'm sure you do, and depending on the vehicle, I also check the ball joints before I go up with a jack and big o prybar. I need to show this video to all my new general service techs in my shop. Good video. Keep em coming

[@gailtaylor1636]

I've seen this go two ways. 1. Do your basic brake inspection thru the wheel then "sell" the customer a more detailed inspection so you are covered if wheel studs have an issue on removal. Probably best for CYA. 2. (My preference) Remove wheels and inspect caliper for free movement/push pistons ALL THE WAY IN/measure rotors. But I have been chewed out either way. Started at a new shop one time. Removed wheels and pulled a pad.Took it to SM to show him. He went thru the roof. Screamed at me. Said we didn't have permission to remove wheels and it was STUPID to remove/check caliper piston operation, etc, etc. I left. I'm too old to be screamed at. Been chewed out for NOT removing calipers and checked for proper operation. Sometimes you can't win.

[@PaulsMechanics]

Gail Taylor moral of the long story short, if you choose to be a mechanic you’re going to get screamed at by lesser skilled people higher up the ladder.

[@iamtheliberated]

We had a guy get yelled at because he didn't measure an inner pad that you literally cannot see with the caliper on. They took it to another shop and found the inner pad nearly gone. They wanted to write the tech up for that. That's where I draw the line. I would have to be a douche about it. If you want the caliper off, make that clear. But, when you're paying the flat rate techs (I'm hourly at the moment) .6 for a LOF/Rotate with a full inspection, they're going to lose money on that somewhere. Plus what happens if the customer isn't warned it's a possibility, you pull a caliper and it's seized, and they decline the repair? Now you're definitely losing money. Rock and a hard place...

[@dylanazan8830]

Gail Taylor we never win we just get a little better each time

[@madmechanic7976]

Gail Taylor pep boys does that. Requires you to.take one bolt out.

[@86753091974]

Couldnt have said it better my self. It's funny how each shop can be so different in those policies. I worked at a place where we had to pull pads out and measure every drum or rotor even if it was brand new. I dont see the point of that. If the customer did want brakes the inspection became free even though we had to put it all back together and get it off the hoist while waiting for authorization anyways. In fact at that shop there was a deep low spot in the floor by the pillar for the hoist. Water would puddle up in there (from rainwater etc dripping of vehicle) I would put old rags in the puddle of water to try and soak it up. It drove the owner nuts to see rags on the floor. It drove me nuts to deal with the puddle.

[@benhampton9593]

If you’re new this stuff is money in the bank. As a 30 year veteran of the field I appreciate someone else trying to help the next generation.

[@suezanarms1287]

Dig it Mike! .. Thanks for showing us newbie's on how or should act and inspect. Hi five dude. You are a good teacher.

[@B1G5L1M]

Great video as always FRM. We use tablets in our shop with built in inspection sheets, alldata, identifix, and camera capability to note severity of pretty much every component on vehicles that come through the door. Also enjoyed the unmentioned visual tip about the kneepad usage when setting the hoist. Nothing worse than cold concrete on old knees.

[@tonyovermyer5368]

Yeah I spent a good chunk of time doing it without a knee pad and messed up me knee real bad

[@B1G5L1M]

@@tonyovermyer5368 yeah, anytime I have to spend time on the floor I always throw down the pad-I keep it on a hook on my hoist

[@WBOS72]

Thanks a lot Mike - nice thorough check routine.

[@willyqueen4066]

Thanks great video it is good to see pride in there work

[@rogerdiggler6598]

I like your process good tips, thanks for taking the time to film

[@robinsonsauto]

Thanks for giving us a insight on your thoughts and process.. solid approach!! Great job Mike

[@ozzstars_cars]

You know we are watching Mikes video? Are you sure you got the right channel Will with that statement? lol

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks Will

[@nathano148]

Great review I watched to see how you do yours it's the way I got tought by my flat tech great video.

[@garyharms276]

Nice step by step mike , just one other thing I always look at is tire wear , I.e. strut and alignment,

[@scottpearsontoolsmore185]

Great video thanks brother. I think you have a great way of doing it. Keep up the great work see you in the next video thanks again brother

[@zmotorsports62]

Nice job. Pretty similar to my procedure. I have checklist that I put together many years ago that I go through so I could show the client as well. Mike

[@timekeeper5275]

Love these videos!

[@mrbobthebuilderss]

Great video as always. If you are looking for more video ideas, a suggestion would be on proper lift safety. If you have any tips and tricks you have seen or use to bring the car between the posts straight or the best way to set the lift pads.

[@tonistarks2874]

Excellent video on demonstrating a inspection

[@PaulysAuto]

Hope GST's are taking notes. Love it!

[@wyattoneable]

These are good checks and tips Mike.

[@flatratemaster]

Thanks Wyatt

[@epicragegaming2016]

when i shake for play in the front i always make sure to check the rear most lca bushing for visible signs of wear, just takes a second to peek. also as i set up the car at each corner ill push the car down to test the shocks. i'm already there. on the way up with the first jolt of the hoist i like to watch the engine and see if it moves from worn mounts, very over looked part of the car.

[@robertmullen2480]

thanks FRM good video like your process learned something!

[@challythap5458]

That was awesome!!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@brettsnyder9806]

Excellent video, I do my inspection the same way!!!!!

[@ridingwiththereids]

Yup yup, good inspection right here. I hope some of the younger/newer Tech's are taking notes. I've only got 12 years experience under my belt as a Technician, but learn new things every day. My question to you is. What's the difference between a technician and a mechanic?? 😉😉

[@BubbaAyers1969]

I’ve been at one shop where the tech would get .5hr for a 16-20 point inspection if done right, the shop never lost money, it was helpful, the techs knowing they were not losing time as well, I seen shops that could not sell a bottle of water and others that would sell you your own mail, I really enjoy watching your videos, wish I was younger to go back to a flat rate shop, at Nalley Ford/Chevrolet/Honda off Stewart ave., taught us how to set the ticket on fire to make money, there’s a lot to write up.. a good flat rate guy knows how to write a ticket to make some money.. the shop I’m at now goes by flat rate time but pays you hourly, a excavator (track hoe) Cat 349,335 or a 336 a level C PM is like 8.0hr inspection and wash time is like 6-7hrs, we work 10hrs a day but can produce 110-150% production worth production ours..but there’s times a pin not taking grease has 2.0hrs on it and you mess with it for 5hrs, it averages out to 100%+ at the end of the week

[@martinhill3986]

Missed the horn LOL similar to our MOT test over here in the UK, but we also do a brake test on rollers and emissions test Our MOT test is compulsory every year after the first 3 years from new

[@flatratemaster]

This is just the general check out i do for every car i see, here is Georgia no safety inspection just emissions

[@gregoryfairchild2460]

I will pop the belt off the tensioner and check for noisy idler or tensioner pulleys.

[@kevinavery2518]

before I leave the parking lot, I like to go through all the interior, i.e. window operation, tow haul switch, mirror operation, traction control switch, eco switch, power seat functions and so on, and during the test drive4wd operation and for any noise difference between 2wd and 4wd and cruise control operation, I'm curious on your thoughts about car seats

[@matthannah4621]

I personally love oil changes. It's a simple easy way to get work in the door. When someones in spending 1000 dollars on a set of Michelins... you dont have much room to sell other than an alignment... occasionally you'll get the customer with deep pockets that will drop 1500 to 2500 in one go, but unlikely when they've already committed to a premium set of tires.

[@ryans413]

Just got my 15 year old car inspected passed with flying colours. Good maintenance helps cars last just saying

[@wrightsrrt871]

Just to let you know you do not need someone all the time to check break lights and such I have the autel ms906ts scanner and it has an active testing section and there's ways to check lights while alone. I go into the body bcm then active test select the thing I'm looking for then hit the actuation button and see if they work

[@jamestully6060]

Nice mention fordtechmakuloco. Smart man there.

[@gregoryfairchild2460]

I hit the sway bar end links with my fist for rattles. Also on test drive

[@nwadeswim]

Could you do a video going into the maintenance schedule guides you use? For flushes and filters ect.

[@BADD400]

Good inspection tips.

[@SuperMarioDiagnostics]

Great routine Mike. I must've been blind because this is the first time I see a lift like that with both legs on one side, very convenient. This whole time I've been using regular lifts, I have to kneel down for the front, get up, go around the lift, kneel down again for the rear. What a pain! You inadvertently schooled me on lifts 🤣 thanks!

[@flatratemaster]

Asymmetric lifts

[@heyitschinoable]

Super Mario Diagnostics at work we have both Asymmetrical lifts 3 out of 4 to be exact. Mine happens to be a Symmetrical lift with the rubber adjustable pads. Sometimes one is better than the other. The symmetrical one i use is good for short wheel bas and Low exotic cars.

[@EXOVCDS]

Good routine... I have a hard time editing one camera angle. Good job! =)

[@neverdat2471]

you should redo the video with a stopwatch and a checklist on the left side of the screen while your performing the inspection, a good inspection with oil change rotation is allotted 1hr at most shops I've worked at.

[@DOYLECLEVERLOBE1]

Very informative 👍🔧👍🔧👍🔧.

[@StoneColdStrah]

i do the same thing when im near glass from reflection like a you find at the store or mall to check the lights on my car...its weird but it works

[@tylermcgonigal6031]

Would you do a video talking about different types of lifts and talk about the different features and manufacturers

[@gregoryfairchild2460]

I use my hood prop for brake light check

[@carlosolvera72]

How long does it take? At my shop the yest drive alone takes 10 mins. And they are free inspections oh and free air filter and light bulb installs. I ask why should I check those things if I wonr get.paidnfor upsells on them.

[@chasauto2932]

Good video Mike

[@gerrybrown2552]

Great video I subscribed and take your advice

[@asmautollc]

Great vid. Thx.

[@maxwellritter4053]

what about the horn , wipers washer fluid sprayers , tire tread depth tire pressure also dry rot or sidewall or tread damage

[@banerific7541]

Could you post a link or do a video on that brake fluid checker, have yet to see a digital checker, always used the brake paper

[@scuba422123]

good check routine. next year we will be seeing you do a trans r and r, along with the pan

[@flatratemaster]

Serviced hundred of these transmissions without ussue

[@scuba422123]

mike I think you put the customer declined the service witch was the thing to do

[@davidjoegamez5901]

Every trans guy I know who’s been doing it for decades recommend flushing trans out in stages or intervals.

[@ozzstars_cars]

I'm going to do my routine self inspection right now. Passed, kind of.

[@flatratemaster]

Passed??? Might want a second opinion on this

[@ozzstars_cars]

@@flatratemaster 😁👍😁

[@jeffcuevas5918]

Somebody likes Matco....nice gear..

[@StreetPeter]

3:43 *PTSD time*

[@etchosts8162]

Check the drum brakes through the rubber inspection hole.

[@JosePerez-rt1kb]

Ivan C , Excellent Video! Sorry for chiming in, I would appreciate your opinion. Have you researched - Saankramer Complete Details System (google it)? It is a great one of a kind product for learning how to check vehicle history minus the hard work. Ive heard some great things about it and my good mate called Gray finally got great success with it.

[@RobertCiampa9112]

Yes, Noticed right of the bat you didn't give the truck a shake shake shake .Please Be careful.

[@ifitsnotbrokenfixit1193]

Thanks for the video FRM. Don't lie to us it more like hay you new guy check out this car for me. 😂😂😂

[@gonzalohernandez88]

How long does it take you to do the routine inspection regardless of the reason why the vehicle arrives at the workshop? I ask because in workshops where I had worked before, the manager said that the routine inspection and review of any vehicle system, whether suspension, brakes, air conditioning, etc. should be done in 10 minutes maximum. A diagnosis with the scanner no more than 30 minutes. I do not think this is possible to do all the time in all the vehicles.

[@flatratemaster]

A basic inspection should take 10-20 minutes but a more through inspection, I.E. multi issues on a car will take longer. a standard CEL diag on average should take about 30 minutes, BUT add multiple codes/systems, evap smoke test etc can greatly increase times, so you are not wrong

[@raptorreq9987]

I guess you could of checked the seal on the fuel cap for cracks or leaks

[@jaysdiesel]

Thoughts on free inspection?? If the shop tells the customer we do free inspection and tech does not do inspection? But the shop doesn’t pay techs for inspection? What are consequences??

[@ucscmike]

Does your shop machine rotors using an on-car lathe or an off-car lathe? We try to recommend new rotors if at all possible.

[@flatratemaster]

We have an off car lathe,but rare for us to turn rotors, normally to thin

[@HerreraCam]

At the dealership, we have all the recommended parts on hand, i.e. oil filters, cabin air filters, air filters, etc... What happens at an independent shop when you have customers who approve all the recommendations and the parts are not on hand?

[@505fastlife6]

All the parts stores deliver to independent shops. They come and go all day until 5:00.

[@mq2825]

Link to the flashlight you were using.. thanks

[@B1G5L1M]

Looks to be a streamlight strion. I have the same light myself i use as a backup for my Coast HP8R.

[@jeffcuevas5918]

Awesome

[@TonicofSonic]

My vehicle inspection routine consists of looking for puddles on the ground when I drive away.

[@eddieds312]

What do you think about Toyota (WS auto trans fluid) Is there another fluid that is compatible?

[@flatratemaster]

Only OEM

[@thetwig187]

I have a question and I cant seem to find a solid answer and was wondering what your thoughts were? Brake caliper slider pins that have the little rubber bushing on the tip of the slider pin (usually go in the upper anchor bracket hole), what is the purpose of this rubber bushing? I have always found that the pin with the rubber bushing is almost 100% seized and causes un-even brake pad wear. I have replaced the bushings with new on some application and it seems that the slider pins are so tight and do not slide well even with the new hardware and proper lubrication. I have just plain removed them on some vehicles to achieve a better slider pin/caliper feel. What's your thoughts on this? thanks Chris in Canada

[@Luke-id1cp]

Yes I would like your thoughts on this as well

[@flatratemaster]

Noise, to keep the pin from hitting hard and making a clicking noise, would be my guess

[@robinsonsauto]

I'd second Mike's guess.. noise. great question

[@timlemay9045]

Noise dampening has always been my guess also. I use Silglyde when relubing, oil based grease attacks rubber and makes it swell.

[@MYERS503]

Vibration dampening

[@markrup6369]

No check on the battery water level??

[@flatratemaster]

That's old school

[@86753091974]

What about the euro air filters. You inspect every one ? Even the miserable ones that are time consuming? Also some cabin filters are difficult access. I rec those by age or mileage. From a customers perspective I would question why someone would take it out and look at it for free but then charge me to replace it. Interested in your response. I always enjoy your vids.

[@autodrglen5634]

That's what your inspection camera is for

[@86753091974]

@@autodrglen5634 great point, if possible. I actually purchased a boroscope for that reason 10 years ago. I prefer the dual imager unit (on my snap on) that I have had to replace at least 5 times since.

[@autodrglen5634]

@@86753091974 I went cheap... bought the large headed $90 camera at Harbor Freight with extended warranty (casts great light to see, but can't get into spark pkug hole or O2 sensor bung hole), so when the newer one came out with the 6mm head for $250.00 I took the okder one back and used the extended warranty upgrade option... paid the difference with no $$ penalty. It does video and images in color and black and white. Fits into spark plug and O2 holes, can file share on SD.card or PC connection, rechargable. Only down fall is it has a single LED head light that leaves something to be desired but still gets the job done and I am happy with the ROI. No problems with it, though I did damage the head on it using it to extract some trailer hitch bolts out of the body of a Fusion and now the picture quality has suffered but still usable.

[@Crazy_clown6969]

Sell it really like the video

[@iWatchVideosAtHome]

What kind of flashlight do you use? Looks very bright, and is it rechargeable?

[@flatratemaster]

Streamlight strion

[@iWatchVideosAtHome]

@@flatratemaster thanks, couple of the guys I work with use streamlight too

[@keeganpock864]

Some nice ass wheels in the background 😶

[@christopherenger1602]

Very solid video, for got one thing though......eye pro!

[@dimmn82]

Out of curiosity, why aren't the service writers writing the mileage down in the lane?

[@desarioe]

Usually go straight to compliant first in case they starring like Mike meyers... then do my look over. "Why is he under the hood for brake noise"

[@heyitschinoable]

Enzo De Sario lol I seen that meme 😂 😂 💀

[@MrAnderson3615]

If the advisor is doing their job correctly the customer should be aware that we preform a general check over on every vehicle. This helps for two reasons it helps avoid the situation you mentioned as well makes it easier to sell anything else you find.

[@BIGWILLY8313]

I've been "talked to" about this because the customer complained I was under the hood when all they wanted was brakes checked... well sorry for being thorough and making sure you car is ok and safe to drive. O well what you gonna do... brush it off that's what move on and make money.

[@Fordrally89]

"The technician is checking the brake fluid...that lives under the hood". That's what I tell them

[@misshargreaves6930]

No inspection on tyres ?

[@flatratemaster]

It got a full inspection and front brakes

[@stevem9141]

Um you forgot to check the blinker fluid

[@thanman3]

Hey Flatrate, would you be able to provide the product name on the brake fluid tester please? Thanks

[@hostilityy]

looks like an OTC or Powerbuilt. you don't need to spend that much for those brands because cheaper ones on amazon have the same review. basic technology here. all these do is test for moisture via resistance/electricity with the two prongs. you can achieve the same test results with a quality multimeter if you already have one.

[@FishFind3000]

I’m just gonna assume most brands have this but even my $200 bmw programmed scanner can tell the car to turn on the brake lights or reverse lights without being in gear.

[@flatratemaster]

Not hooking up a scan tool to check lights

[@charliemagoo7943]

FishFind3000. Test everything under normal conditions. Reverse lights may come on with key fob but may not come on when in reverse

[@Jpilgrim30]

If the brake light switch was bad the BCM would turn on the lamps using the scan tool but in actual use they’d be inoperative. Plus, it would take longer to ID the vehicle and go through the menus than it would to do it manually.

[@sonofmontezuma3732]

Wait ,why are the doors closed? Thought you were PROTECTED? 🤔 Least I remember something like that or was it a western movie am confusing you with? Lol

[@MYERS503]

Odd seeing you in a jacket. I got used to it looking like it was hot as hell there.

[@yianniboulas9315]

What does LOF stand for

[@flatratemaster]

Lube, oil and Filter,Aka an Oil Change

[@adamwhite2136]

@@flatratemaster only pay .3. For all vehicle lol i wounder how they come up with these time

[@Crazy_clown6969]

Is it about time for your yearly prostate examination LOL that what the doctor says it’s time to glove up

[@flatratemaster]

My doctor told me, only correct response was oh yeah big daddy😉🤣🤣🤣

[@longonponce]

how LATE are you working?

[@flatratemaster]

I film at about 9 to 10 pm

[@itsatoolthing6323]

Sounds like you give it a thorough road test probably all the way to the next entrance of your own parking lot

[@flatratemaster]

Only one entrance😝

[@Mac1o24]

I dont believe you checked the other side of the vehicle. Plz post proof..

[@flatratemaster]

I am thinking Saab stories there Zack😉

[@Mac1o24]

@@flatratemaster 😂

[@ezeeduzzit]

😳

[@givemefreespeechyoutubehitlers]

Shaking brake oil onto engine bay paint. I'm sure the owner will appreciate his paint peeling there 🙄

[@steveg5576]

Do they ever pass.... ? lol...

[@stans5270]

Sorry, but if the car is in for brake noise, inspecting the trans fluid would have me finding a new mechanic.

[@autodrglen5634]

Paying for a brake job, and a having a trans problem a few days later because the trans cooler had been leaking coolant into transmission would too... probably. You'd probably even be looking for an attorney to sue the guy who did the brakes blaming him for causing it or missing it.

[@stans5270]

@@autodrglen5634 You just blinded me with all that projection you just spewed all over the place. I would say that you can't be that stupid, but I'm sure that you would see that as a challenge.

[@stans5270]

@@autodrglen5634 Only if I knew that he was F'ing around with my trans and not just keeping his focus on my brakes. The FIRST thing any attorney would ask is "What part of the braking system is connected to the transmission?". If it's not asked for, don't mess with it. PERIOD

[@autodrglen5634]

@@stans5270 Sorry Stan... been there... as the shop, its your fault for not catching when you inspected it. Had a fuel pump fail on a Yukon at 80k something miles. Wouldnt ya know it, it was a brake job. Customer drove it there, no problem. Tech did brakes and test drove, no problem. Customer pays and goes to leave, no start.... Ya'll sabatoged my car!!... we ended up replacing fuel pump for free... customers rip shops off, usually without intent. And, when you pay a proffesional to do work, you are paying for his proffesional opion on of the car is worth the repairs that you know of that it needs. If he doesn't look the rest of the car over, you arent getting your money's worth. I have caught things in the past where, due to other things they were not aware of, recomended they get rid of the car instead of wasting money on what they came in for. No matter what you go to the doctor for, they check your blood pressure, temp, and weight.

[@autodrglen5634]

@@stans5270 Been in this proffesionally since '91... not stupid... wise.

[@king49334]

I don't think you get pay for checking things out only if customer buys it flat rate suck

[@flatratemaster]

Brake inspection at the shop is .5 hrs if no repairs done

[@etchosts8162]

Flat rate is nickel and diming that b**** 😂

[@flatratemaster]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@mikeholt3545]

Wow 56k and needs transmission fluid change has oil leaks and needs brakes guess that's why I only buy toyotas now.

[@flatratemaster]

Quess you don't work on many Toyotas most need brakes at 30k around here, most of the SUVs have water pumps leaking etc at 50k

[@mikeholt3545]

@@flatratemaster I guess there's always some variables in any statement but I think that most people can agree that toyotas in general are far more reliable than other manufacturers. Thanks for the video and reply!

[@96cr]

While milage is a gauge of usage I think alot of highway miles are easier on cars and make the services seem like they go longer versus someone who commutes in traffic regularly. Example 30k brakes for some one who lives in the city, 65k for brakes for someone who lives in the country with no traffic

[@Joetechlincolns]

Every auto manufacturer will have their common failures.

[@mikeholt3545]

@@Joetechlincolns yes but it would be very atypical for a toyota to fail so early unfortunately not so for the big 3

[@alanshaw6161]

I love the videos where you work on cars. You can ditch the music though. I would rather here you talk or listen to the lift lol 😆