The 10-Minute Pre-Race Inspection Every Racer Should Do

By Kevin Shatto  |  March 20, 2026

A quick pre-race walkaround can catch problems before they cost you a race — or worse. Here's our checklist.

We've seen too many races end in the pits because of something that could have been caught with a quick inspection. Here's what we check every single time before we push the car to the grid.

The Checklist

1. Lug nuts — torque every one. Don't trust that they're still tight from last week.
2. Brake fluid level — low fluid means a leak or worn pads. Either one is a problem.
3. Brake pad thickness — check all four corners. Don't guess.
4. Wheel bearings — grab the tire at 12 and 6, rock it. Any play needs attention.
5. Tie rod ends — check for play. These wear faster than you'd think on rough tracks.
6. Shock shafts — look for leaking oil. A blown shock is a DNF waiting to happen.
7. Fuel cell — check your fuel level AND your vent lines. A kinked vent = fuel starvation.
8. Oil level — obvious but often skipped in the rush to get on track.
9. Belts and harnesses — check the webbing for fraying, buckles for function. This is your life.
10. Kill switch — make sure it works. Officials will check, and more importantly, it could save your life.

Make It a Habit

This takes 10 minutes. Do it every race night, even when you're running late. The one time you skip it is the time something goes wrong.

Need replacement parts for anything on this list? We've got rod ends, brake components, safety equipment, and more in stock.

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