Coolant System, Hose, and Belt Inspection Checklist

This coolant system, hose, and belt inspection checklist provides systematic evaluation of the entire cooling and accessory drive system. Cooling system failures are the leading cause of roadside breakdowns in North America. Serpentine belt failure disables alternator, power steering, and air conditioning simultaneously. Early identification of deteriorating hoses, belts, and coolant prevents expensive engine damage from overheating. Aligned with OEM cooling system service intervals and ASE A1 e

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Annually / Every 30,000 Miles
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Role: Service Technician / ASE A1-Certified Technician
Total Items: 28
Compliance: ASE A1 Engine Repair Certification, OEM Coolant Change Intervals and Specifications, ASTM D3306 / D6210 Coolant Standards, Gates Belt and Hose Inspection Standards, SAE J1600 Cooling System Hose Standards

Coolant Condition and Strength

Inspect coolant condition and verify freeze protection is adequate.

Coolant level at correct mark in reservoir with engine cold?
Freeze protection tested with refractometer and adequate for local minimum temperature?
Coolant free of rust, scale, oil contamination, or unusual color?
Coolant pH within acceptable range (7.5-10.5) with test strip?
Correct coolant type for this vehicle (OAT, HOAT, NOAT) - no incompatible mixing detected?

Radiator and Heater Hose Condition

Squeeze and visual inspect all hoses for deterioration before failure.

Upper radiator hose firm but flexible - not rock hard (heat crystallized) or mushy (internally deteriorated)?
Lower radiator hose spring insert intact (prevents collapse under suction from water pump)?
All hose clamps positioned correctly over bead, tight, and not corroded through?
No coolant residue or staining at any hose connection points?
Heater inlet and outlet hoses in acceptable condition with secure clamps?

Serpentine and Accessory Belt Inspection

Inspect belt condition to prevent unexpected failure that disables multiple systems.

Serpentine belt inspected for cracks, glazing, fraying, or missing chunks?
Belt tensioner holding adequate tension - not at limit of travel?
Tensioner pulley bearing smooth with no wobble or grinding when spun by hand?
All idler pulleys smooth with no wobble, noise, or lateral play?
Alternator, A/C compressor, and power steering pump pulleys aligned and not wobbling?

Thermostat and Water Pump Function

Verify thermostat and water pump operation without special equipment.

Thermostat verified opening at correct temperature by monitoring scan tool coolant temp?
Engine temperature stable at normal operating range during test drive?
Water pump showing no coolant weep from vent hole or shaft seal?
Water pump bearing smooth with no wobble felt on pump shaft pulley?
Cooling system pressure tested to 15-17 PSI with no pressure drop over 5 minutes?

Cooling System Service Documentation

Document all cooling system findings and completed services.

Coolant flush performed if coolant was due for replacement per OEM interval?
Radiator fins inspected and straightened or cleaned of debris blocking airflow?
Radiator or coolant reservoir cap pressure-tested to rated value?
All cooling system findings and recommended services documented on repair order?
Customer advised of next coolant service interval per OEM schedule?
Oil change sticker or under-hood label updated with coolant service date and type?
Electric cooling fan operation verified at temperature threshold or via scan tool command?
Overflow/expansion tank condition checked - not cracked, stained, or showing scale buildup?

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Why Use This Coolant System, Hose, and Belt Inspection Checklist?

This coolant system, hose, and belt inspection checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for service technician / ase a1-certified technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: annually / every 30,000 miles.

Ensures compliance with ASE A1 Engine Repair Certification, OEM Coolant Change Intervals and Specifications, ASTM D3306 / D6210 Coolant Standards, Gates Belt and Hose Inspection Standards, SAE J1600 Cooling System Hose Standards, UK MOT Cooling System Requirements, India CMVR Engine Cooling System Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Coolant System, Hose, and Belt Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Coolant Condition and Strength, Radiator and Heater Hose Condition, Serpentine and Accessory Belt Inspection, Thermostat and Water Pump Function, Cooling System Service Documentation. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed annually / every 30,000 miles. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this Coolant System, Hose, and Belt Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Service Technician / ASE A1-Certified Technician professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.