Valvoline’s 18-Point Inspection checks 18 important parts of your car during a quick oil change. It helps catch small problems early, keeps your car safe, improves fuel efficiency, and makes your vehicle last longer.
Skipping the inspection can lead to missed issues like low fluids or worn belts, which hurt your car’s performance. Valvoline’s service is faster, easier, and more affordable compared to dealership inspections.
What Is Valvoline 18-Point Inspection?
Valvoline’s 18-Point Inspection is a quick check of 18 key parts of your car. It’s done during a full-service oil change and takes less than 15 minutes.
Technicians look at things like fluid levels, lights, belts, and tires. With this you can catch common issues such as low fluids or worn-out parts.
You get a simple report showing your car’s current condition. This helps keep your car safe, reliable, and running smoothly.
Why Is Valvoline 18-Point Inspection Important?
Valvoline’s 18-Point Inspection helps catch small issues early, so they don’t turn into big problems. This keeps your vehicle running longer and more reliably.
It checks things like brake lights, tire condition, and fluid levels to keep you safe on the road. It also makes sure your engine runs efficiently with proper oil and coolant flow.
By spotting worn-out parts early, it helps you plan maintenance before a breakdown happens. This can lower repair costs, protect your warranty, and boost your car’s resale value.
Valvoline’s 18-Point Inspection: The Complete Checklist
Fluid System Checks
Fluid system checks focus on the liquids your car depends on every day.
- Engine Oil: Checked to make sure there’s enough oil and that it’s still clean enough to protect your engine.
- Transmission Fluid: Reviewed to confirm it’s at the right level and still in good condition to keep gear changes smooth.
- Brake Fluid: Examined to ensure your brakes respond the way they should when you need them most.
- Coolant / Antifreeze: Measured to help your engine stay at the right temperature, even in extreme conditions.
- Power Steering Fluid: Looked at to make sure your steering feels light and controlled, without weird noises.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Topped off so you’re ready for dirt, bugs, and whatever else hits your windshield.
- Differential Fluid: Checked to keep gears in the axle moving smoothly, especially in tough driving conditions.
- Transfer Case Fluid: Reviewed in AWD or 4WD vehicles to make sure power moves to the right wheels when needed.
Functional and Safety System Checks
Functional and safety system checks help keep your ride smooth, safe, and problem-free.
- Battery Health Check: Tested to see if your battery is holding a strong charge or if it’s on the way out.
- Serpentine Belt: Inspected for any cracks or signs of wear that could mess with engine performance.
- Wiper Blades: Looked at to make sure they clear the windshield without streaks or skipping.
- Exterior Lights: All the lights, from turn signals to brake lights, are tested so other drivers can see you clearly.
- Tire Pressure: Checked and adjusted so your tires wear evenly and your ride stays fuel-efficient.
Visual System Checks
Visual system checks are quick visual inspections to catch anything that looks off before it turns into a bigger issue.
- Air Filter: Reviewed to make sure it’s not clogged up with dust, which can hurt your engine’s efficiency.
- Cabin Air Filter: Checked so the air inside your car stays fresh and easy to breathe.
- Chassis Lubrication: Moving parts underneath your car are greased when needed to avoid squeaks or wear.
- Exhaust System: Looked over for any signs of leaks, rust, or damage that might affect how your car runs or sounds.
- Underhood Inspection: A general scan under the hood to catch loose hoses, cracked clamps, or anything that looks out of place.
What are the Benefits of Valvoline 18-Point Inspection?
Valvoline 18-Point Inspection improves mechanical health while reducing emergency repair costs. Here are 7 key benefits:
1. Faster Diagnostics
Valvoline’s inspection helps catch problems early, even before you notice any signs. This makes it easier and faster to fix small issues before they get worse.
2. Improved Engine Life
Technicians check all major fluids to make sure your engine stays cool and runs smoothly. Regular checks help prevent overheating and serious engine damage.
3. Increased Fuel Economy
Clean air filters and properly inflated tires help your car use less fuel. This means more miles per gallon and fewer stops at the gas station.
4. Enhanced Safety
The inspection checks brakes, lights, and tires to make sure everything works in emergencies. This adds extra peace of mind every time you drive.
5. Cost Prevention
Fixing small issues early helps you avoid expensive repairs later. It’s a smart way to keep your car in shape without draining your wallet.
6. Higher Resale Value
Keeping inspection records shows buyers your car was well cared for. This can make your vehicle more appealing and increase its value.
7. Time Savings
The entire inspection takes just 15 minutes during your Valvoline oil change. You get a full update on your car’s condition without slowing down your day.
How Often Should You Get a Valvoline 18-Point Inspection?
Every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or at every oil change is the optimal frequency. Vehicles with synthetic oils or longer change intervals should follow the mileage schedule recommended in their owner’s manual.
What Happens If You Skip the 18-Point Inspection?
Skipping Valvoline’s 18-Point Inspection increases failure risk in several systems:
- Low brake fluid or damaged belts go unnoticed.
- Failing batteries won’t trigger alerts until breakdown.
- Air filters clog, reducing fuel efficiency by up to 15%.
Routine inspection is essential for owners seeking to avoid avoidable repair costs or safety hazards.
Read More: Conventional vs High Mileage Oil
Valvoline Inspection vs Dealership Service
| Feature | Valvoline Inspection | Dealership Service |
| Time to Complete | 15 Minutes | 60–120 Minutes |
| Appointment Required | No | Yes |
| Included in Oil Change? | Yes | No (charged extra) |
| Multi-Point Coverage | 18 Points | 20+ Points |
| Cost | Free w/ Oil Change | $100+ |
What Is the Customer Experience Like at Valvoline Service Centers?
Customers remain in their vehicle while technicians complete the inspection in real time. Every result is shared before you leave. Technicians do not upsell unnecessary services. They only recommend replacements for items that fail inspection.
Over 9,000 customer reviews report a 95% satisfaction rate with the transparency and efficiency of Valvoline’s service model.
Conclusion
Valvoline 18-Point Inspection is a vital service for keeping vehicles running longer and safer. By checking engine fluids, key components, and potential problem areas, it prevents breakdowns and reduces maintenance costs.
Each 15-minute visit adds long-term value, helps identify hidden issues, and keeps your car in top shape year-round.
