Check the air filter every other month. Replace it when it's dirty or
as part of a tune-up. It is easy to reach, right under the big metal
"lid", in a carbureted engine; or in a rectangular box at
the forward end of the air duct hose assembly.
Check the antifreeze/coolant level weekly. Some cars have transparent
reservoirs with level markings. Fill to level marking with 50/50
solution of antifreeze and water. Caution: Do not remove the pressure
cap when engine is hot.
Use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce
explosive gases. Do not smoke, create a spark or light a match near a
battery and always wear protective glasses and gloves. Have it
checked with every oil change. Cables should be attached securely and
be free of corrosion. If battery has filler holes, add only clear
odorless drinking water.
Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed
belts. Tighten them when more than 1/2" of slack can be
depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt
tensioners require no adjustment. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle
hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or
too hard, it should be replaced.
Check brake fluid monthly. First, wipe dirt from the brake master
cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid
or unscrew plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If
you need fluid, add the approved type and check for possible leaks
throughout the system. Fill to mark on reservoir. Caution:Do
Not Overfill
Check oil every other fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean.
insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To
maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months,
whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Exhaust
Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports.
Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace rusted or damaged parts.
Have emission checked at least once per year for compliance with
local laws.
Hoses
.
.
Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed
belts. Tighten them when more than 1/2" of slack can be
depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt
tensioners require no adjustment. Replace bulging, rotten or brittle
hoses and tighten clamps. If a hose looks bad, or feels too soft or
too hard, it should be replaced.
Lights
.
.
Be sure all your lights are clean and working, including brake
lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep spare bulbs and
fuses in your vehicle.
Oil Filter
To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3
months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change.
Check power steering fluid level once per month. Simply remove the
reservoir dipstick. If the level is down, add fluid and inspect the
pump and hoses for leaks.
Shock Absorbers
Look for signs of oil seepage on shock absorbers, test shock action
by bouncing the car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when
you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always
replace shock absorbers in pairs.
Tires
.
.
Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure (it helps to own your own
gauge). Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear
indicates tires are misaligned or out of balance. Keep a record of
tire rotation. Rotate at the first 5,000 miles and every 7,500 miles thereafter.
Check transmission fluid monthly with engine warm and running, and
parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe
dry, insert it and remove it again. Add the approved type fluid, if needed. Caution: Do Not Overfill!
Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use
some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades.
In the winter months, pay attention to the freezing point of the
washer fluid.
Wiper Blades
Inspect windshield wiper blades whenever you clean your windshield.
Do not wait until rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. Wiper
blades should be replaced at least once per year, and more often if
smearing or chattering occurs.
Click the arrow above to go back where you just linked from
The objective of this Web Page is to familiarize you with basic auto maintenance
- in some common emergencies - not to make you an expert in auto mechanics
DISCLAIMER:
PLEASE READ - By printing, downloading, or using you agree to our
full terms. Review the full terms by clicking
here. Below is
a summary of some of the terms. If you do not agree to the full
terms, do not use the information. We are only publishers of this
material, not authors. Information may have errors or be outdated.
Some information is from historical sources or represents opinions of
the author. It is for research purposes only. The information is
"AS IS", "WITH ALL FAULTS". User assumes all risk
of use, damage, or injury. You agree that we have no liability for
any damages. We are not liable for any consequential, incidental,
indirect, or special damages. You indemnify us for claims caused by you.
I am in no way, shape, or
form telling you to do this yourself. Your results may vary. If
something goes wrong, it is not my fault! These are just guidelines.
