A system for automated inspection of a surface; the system may include a self-propelled, steerable carriage capable of traversing the surface, the carriage having a camera positioned to view an object on the surface, and at least of one of a sensor capable of detecting a defect in the surface, a tool for treating the defect, and a sensor for inspecting a repair of the defect; and a computer controller connected to receive image data from the camera, communicate with and selectively actuate the at least of one of a sensor capable of detecting a defect in the surface, a tool for treating the defect, and a sensor for inspecting a repair of the defect, and control the carriage to move on the surface along one or more of a pre-set path and a path to one or more pre-set locations.