Tech Inspection Checklist for HPDE & Track Days

Tech inspection (tech) is the safety check at the beginning of every track event. A tech inspector reviews your car and gear to confirm you meet minimum safety requirements. Failing tech doesn't mean your car is dangerous — it means something wasn't in order. Most failures are preventable with good preparation. This checklist covers what tech inspectors look for at NASA HPDE, GridLife, and similar events.

Car Inspection Items

Engine Bay

• No fluid leaks — oil, coolant, power steering fluid
• Battery secured (no loose connections or mounting)
• No cracked or deteriorated hoses
• Brake fluid reservoir full and cap secure
• Coolant overflow reservoir secure
• No loose items — rags, tools, cap covers left in engine bay

Brakes

• Brake pedal firm — pump it 3x, should not go to the floor
• Minimum brake pad thickness — typically 3mm minimum (varies by event)
• No brake fluid contamination (dark, burnt-smelling fluid is a red flag)
• No brake dust or residue indicating pad glazing or severe wear
• Rotors with no visible deep grooves or hard spots visible through the wheel

Tires and Wheels

• No cords visible — any visible cords is an automatic fail
• No sidewall bubbles or bulges
• Lug nuts present and properly torqued
• No cracked or bent wheels
• Valve stem caps on
• Minimum tread depth — varies by event, often 2/32" minimum

Interior

• All floor mats removed or secured — loose mats can jam under pedals
• No loose items in the cabin (water bottles, bags, gear in footwells)
• Fire extinguisher mounted securely if required (not just sitting on seat)
• Horn functional
• Seatbelts in good condition — no fraying, proper latch function
• Seat secure — no play or movement

Exterior

• Hood latches properly — no secondary catch failure
• Trunk secure — no rattling or ability to pop open
• No bodywork panels that could detach at speed
• Mirrors present and operational (usually required)
• Headlights taped (requirement varies — NASA typically requires taping)
• No oil or fluid drips on the underside of the car

Gear Inspection Items

Helmet

• Meets event-required certification (SA2020 or SA2015 at most events)
• Certification sticker visible and legible
• No visible cracks, chips, or deformations
• Visor present and functional
• Within certification expiration window (SA2020 good through 2030)

Fire Extinguisher (if required)

• Properly mounted with a rated bracket — not sitting loose on a seat
• Pressure gauge in green zone
• Safety pin present
• Not expired or discharged
• Accessible while seated and belted

Driving Suit, Gloves, Shoes (if required)

• Meets required rating for the run group (e.g., SFI 3.2A/1 for HPDE 3-4)
• Certification label visible and intact
• No major damage (tears, melted fabric, compromised zipper)

Most Common Tech Failures

Based on what organizers report most often:

1. Floor mats not removed — simple fix, always do this in the parking lot
2. Helmet not meeting current certification — check before you arrive
3. Fire extinguisher not mounted — "on the seat" fails tech; use a bracket
4. Brake pads worn below minimum — check pad thickness the week before, not the morning of
5. Loose items in the cabin — water bottle in the footwell, backpack on back seat
6. Fluid leaks discovered during inspection — do a wet inspection before you go