Checks performed with the vehicle on the ground (Partner I, 1996-2008)

Number plates

License plates must be in good condition and securely fastened, and the numbers must be easy to read. Letters and numbers must be correctly arranged and must comply with current regulations.
Labels on the vehicle identification plate (VIN) and the nameplate must be easy to read.

Turn on the ignition and check the operation of the horn.
Check the operation of the windshield wipers and washers, inspect the wiper brushes; Replace damaged and worn brushes. Also check the operation of the brake lights.

Check the operation of the parking lights and license plate lamps. Diffusers and reflectors must be securely fastened, clean and undamaged.
Check the operation and adjustment of the headlights. Headlight reflectors must not be tarnished and lenses must not be damaged.
Turn on the ignition and check the operation of the direction indicators (as well as control lamps on the instrument panel) and emergency signaling. Turning on the parking lights and brake lights should not affect the direction indicators - if this happens, the cause may be poor grounding to the mass of the rear light units.
Check the operation of the rear fog lamps and, at the same time, the indicator lamp on the instrument panel or on the switch.
The ABS warning light must turn on in accordance with the vehicle's owner's manual. On most models, the ABS warning light should come on when the ignition is turned on and go out after a few seconds to indicate that the system is working. Please refer to the instruction manual.

Inspect the master cylinder, brake lines and vacuum booster; check for leaks, corrosion, loose fasteners, or other malfunctions or damage.

The brake fluid reservoir must be securely fastened, and the fluid level must be between the top (A) and lower (IN) marks.

Inspect both front rubber brake hoses for cracks or deterioration. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock and make sure that the hoses do not touch the wheels or the suspension or steering components. With the brake pedal fully depressed, check pressurized hoses for bulges or leaks.

Have an assistant turn the steering wheel slightly from side to side until the wheels begin to turn. Check for excessive play between the steering wheel and the steering gear, which would indicate excessive wear or poor connections between the steering column and the steering gear or the steering gear itself.
Have your assistant turn the steering wheel more vigorously in both directions until the wheels are just beginning to turn. At this time, inspect all connections, levers, rods and fastenings of the steering system. Any element showing signs of wear or damage should be replaced with a new one. On vehicles equipped with power steering, also check the looseness and condition of the power steering pump, drive belt and hoses.
Make sure the vehicle is level and has the correct ground clearance (approximately).

Apply pressure to each of the corners of the car in turn, and then release. The vehicle should rise and then return to its normal position. If the vehicle continues to rise and fall, the shock absorber is bad. If the car does not return to its original state at all, this also means that the shock absorber is faulty.

Start the engine and have your assistant plug the muffler exhaust pipe with a rag. Check the entire system for leaks. Repair or replace sections that are leaking.