Comprehensive Road Test and Vehicle Dynamics Checklist

This comprehensive road test checklist provides a structured procedure for pre-delivery inspections, diagnostic road tests, and quality control drive-offs after major repairs. A systematic road test approach prevents comebacks by verifying all repaired systems under real operating conditions. Aligned with OEM pre-delivery inspection road test requirements, ASE quality technician standards, and dealership PDI drive-off procedures.

Industry: Automotive Service / Dealership
Frequency: Per PDI / Per Major Repair / Per Customer Complaint Verification
Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
Role: Master Technician / PDI Inspector
Total Items: 29
Compliance: OEM Pre-Delivery Inspection Road Test Requirements, ASE Master Technician Road Test Standards, FMVSS 126 (Electronic Stability Control Test), NHTSA Brake Test Procedures, UK MOT Road Test Requirements

Cold Start and Stationary Checks

Initial system checks before moving the vehicle.

Engine cold starts promptly without extended cranking or hesitation?
Cold idle stabilizes smoothly within 30 seconds and warms without roughness?
All warning lights extinguished after self-test (except expected lights like airbag before start)?
HVAC system blows air at all speeds and modes with appropriate temperature in all zones?
Wipers operate at all speeds and washers spray correctly?
All power mirrors, windows, and sunroof operate without binding?

Acceleration and Transmission Performance

Verify drivetrain performance under load.

Smooth acceleration with no hesitation, stumble, or misfire at light to moderate throttle?
Wide open throttle acceleration smooth with no coughing, flat spots, or power hesitation?
Transmission upshifts smooth and timely through all gears at normal throttle?
Kickdown downshifts crisp and responsive under hard acceleration?
No transmission slipping, flaring, or hunting between gears?
No drivetrain vibration or shudder at any speed range during acceleration?

Braking Performance and Stability

Verify brake system and stability control function.

Normal braking smooth with no pulsation, pull, or noise?
ABS activates on hard stop on loose surface without pulling or wheel lockup?
Brake pedal firm throughout stop with no spongy fade or travel increase?
Electronic stability control system verified active (ESC light extinguished during normal driving)?
No squeal, groan, or grinding during any braking application?

Steering Response and Suspension

Evaluate steering feel and suspension noise over road surfaces.

Vehicle tracks straight on level road with no pull requiring steering correction?
Steering responsive with no looseness, wander, or on-center vagueness?
No clunking, knocking, or creaking from suspension over bumps or dips?
Steering stable and confident at highway speed with no shimmy or flutter?
No CV joint clicking or differential binding noise during low speed full-lock turns?

Final Checks and Documentation

Document all road test findings and complete the service record.

Engine temperature stable at normal operating range throughout road test?
Charging system voltage 13.8-14.8V during road test (alternator charging)?
No new warning lights illuminated during or after road test?
Fuel level adequate for customer delivery or repair noted to refuel?
Any concerns found during road test documented for follow-up or customer communication?
Vehicle passes road test and is ready for customer delivery or issue identified for additional repair?
Post-road test odometer reading recorded on repair order?

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Why Use This Comprehensive Road Test and Vehicle Dynamics Checklist?

This comprehensive road test and vehicle dynamics checklist helps automotive service / dealership teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for master technician / pdi inspector professionals, this checklist covers 29 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: per pdi / per major repair / per customer complaint verification.

Ensures compliance with OEM Pre-Delivery Inspection Road Test Requirements, ASE Master Technician Road Test Standards, FMVSS 126 (Electronic Stability Control Test), NHTSA Brake Test Procedures, UK MOT Road Test Requirements, India CMVR Vehicle Performance Standards. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Comprehensive Road Test and Vehicle Dynamics Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 29 inspection items across 5 sections: Cold Start and Stationary Checks, Acceleration and Transmission Performance, Braking Performance and Stability, Steering Response and Suspension, Final Checks and Documentation. It is designed for automotive service / dealership operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per pdi / per major repair / per customer complaint verification. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.

Who should use this Comprehensive Road Test and Vehicle Dynamics Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Master Technician / PDI Inspector professionals in the automotive service / dealership 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.