Drone Crash Inspection Checklist — What to Check Before Powering On
A crash can damage more than the most visible component. Work through the aircraft in a fixed order before powering it on or ordering parts.
Priority
Battery and exposed wiring
Sequence
Seven-system inspection
Flight decision
When uncertain, do not fly
The seven checks
Battery: swelling, puncture, denting, heat.
Propellers: cracks, chips, bending and fixing points.
Motors: free movement, stiffness, grinding and alignment.
Arms: cracks, looseness and motor level.
Gimbal: movement, mounts, ribbon cable and camera position.
Body: separation, deformation and cracks near load points.
Electronics: exposed wire, smell, moisture and error messages.
After the visual inspection
If the battery and structure are safe, power on in a clear area without fitting propellers where practical. Record errors, listen for abnormal sounds and do not force a jammed gimbal or motor.
A single external component can be a sensible DIY repair. Multiple systems, water ingress, electronics, calibration or structural uncertainty favour professional assessment.
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