The Checklist for 2026: Passing Your First Post-Winter Safety Audit

Winter Takes a Toll on Your Vehicle's Safety Systems

Winter weather stresses vehicle systems. Cold temperatures affect battery function. Road salt causes rust and corrosion. Snow and ice damage suspension components. Potholes damage wheels and alignment. Spring safety inspections reveal winter damage. Preparing your vehicle for inspection prevents failures.

Battery Testing and Replacement

Cold weather reduces battery power. Winter stresses battery capacity. Spring is ideal for battery testing. Have your battery tested before inspection. Weak batteries may not start reliably. Battery replacement costs $100 to $300. Replace weak batteries before inspection.

Tire Inspection After Winter Driving

Winter driving damages tires. Potholes cause bulges and sidewall damage. Road salt causes corrosion. Snow chains can damage tire sidewalls. Check tire tread depth. Look for damage or uneven wear. Winter tires should be replaced with all-season tires. Verify tire pressure and condition.

Brake System Assessment

Winter salt and moisture affect brakes. Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Brake components rust. Check brake pads for wear. Verify brake fluid condition. Test brake function. Brake fluid flush may be needed. Address brake issues before inspection.

Suspension and Steering Inspection

Potholes damage suspension components. Winter road conditions stress suspension. Check suspension for damage. Look for worn shocks or struts. Verify steering function. Check for looseness or play. Suspension damage causes inspection failure.

Lighting System Check

Winter salt and moisture damage lighting. Corroded light fixtures prevent bulb function. Check all lights. Replace burned-out bulbs. Verify light alignment. Clean light fixtures of corrosion. Lighting failures cause inspection failure.

Windshield Wipers and Washers

Winter use wears wipers quickly. Salt spray damages wiper blades. Check wiper function. Replace worn wipers. Verify washer fluid is present. Check for frozen or clogged lines. Wiper failures cause inspection failure.

Fluid Level and Condition Check

Winter affects fluid condition. Oil thickens in cold. Coolant prevents freezing. Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Check all fluid levels. Verify fluid conditions. Top up as needed. Fluid issues affect system function.

Rust and Corrosion Assessment

Road salt causes rust and corrosion. Check undercarriage for rust. Look at suspension components. Check brake lines and fuel lines. Verify structural components for rust. Minor surface rust is acceptable. Structural rust causes failure. Address serious rust.

Alignment Check After Potholes

Potholes damage alignment. Vehicle pulling to one side indicates alignment issues. Uneven tire wear indicates alignment problems. Get alignment checked. Professional alignment prevents tire wear. Alignment prevents inspection failure.

Exhaust System Inspection

Winter salt damages exhaust systems. Rust creates holes and leaks. Check muffler condition. Look for hanging or dragging parts. Verify exhaust system integrity. Address rust and damage. Exhaust failures cause inspection failure.

Seatbelt and Safety Restraint Check

Cold affects seatbelt function. Check seatbelt operation. Verify buckles work. Test retractors. Look for fraying or damage. Seatbelt failures cause inspection failure.

Post-Winter Safety Inspection Checklist for 2026

• Test battery condition and connections
• Check tire tread depth and condition
• Look for tire damage or uneven wear
• Verify tire pressure is correct
• Test brake system function
• Check brake pad thickness
• Inspect brake fluid condition
• Check suspension for damage
• Verify steering function
• Look for suspension wear
• Test all exterior lights
• Replace burned-out bulbs
• Check light alignment
• Test windshield wipers
• Replace worn wiper blades
• Verify washer fluid present
• Check all fluid levels
• Inspect fluid conditions
• Look for rust and corrosion
• Check undercarriage for damage
• Verify alignment
• Inspect exhaust system
• Check seatbelts and safety features
• Clean vehicle thoroughly
• Address any issues found

Frequently Asked Questions