Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist
7 Aug

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Want to go on your next trip with confidence? Inspecting your car before a race or trail is the first step. We’ve compiled a short list to get you started. We call it a pre-trip but it should really be something you do post-trip. After a trip, while cleaning your car, is the best time to take a minute and inspect everything. Don't wait too long, you will want ample time to take your car into the shop if necessary before your next ride. 

Pre-Trip Checklist 

If you can, jack up both front tires or rear tires to make it easier. 
  • Radiator - Clean and Inspect

    • Pull the front grill off and make sure your radiator is clean and without damage, especially if you have been up in the mountains. 

  • Front Ball Joints - Inspect for Free Play 

    • Grab the top and bottom of the tire and rock in and out. Check for free play, popping, or clicking. You can feel this between the spindle and the a-arm. 

  • Front Tie Rod or Steering Rack - Inspect for Free Play

    • Grab the right and left of the tire and rock side to side. Check for free play, popping, or clicking. 

  • Wheel Bearing 

    • If you get free play both ways when inspecting, it may be an indication a wheel bearing is going out. 

  • Rear Radius Rods - Inspect for Free Play 

    • Grab the top and bottom of the tire and rock in and out. Check for free play, popping, or clicking. 

  • Can Am toe link

    • Grab the right and left of the tire and rock side to side. Check for free play, popping, or clicking. 

  • Front & Rear Suspension - Check for Leaks and Wear

    • Check for oil, indicating an internal leak. Check sliders for breaking or rubbing.

  • Axle Boots - Inspect for Tears and Holes 

    • Often you can't see the tear so instead inspect surrounding areas for cv grease.

  • Sway Bars - Inspect and Grease 

    • Grease and inspect sway bars.

This list is simple, but important for the health of your vehicle, so make sure you take the time before or after every trip. We don't want you guys getting stuck on the trail with a problem that could have been prevented. We want our fellow riders to be confident in their vehicles. If while inspecting your car, you find an issue, reach out to us and we will take care of it!