It is crucial to remember that the good physical and mechanical condition of the car’s components is essential for its proper functioning, whether you’ve recently taken the car in for service or are in the interim between services. Even if you don’t have mechanical knowledge or experience, as a vehicle owner, you can perform regular inspections on essential items to ensure the car’s safety and reliability. It’s important to get your car checked regularly, and while the frequency can vary, a monthly check is probably sufficient for light jobs, while a semi-annual check is adequate for checking the brakes.
Among the scheduled services of your car, it is important to monitor the following points regularly:
Tire pressure, every time you refuel at the local service station.
Check all lights, including headlights, taillights, and indicators.
Car fluid levels such as engine, transmission, coolant, brake, steering, and clutch oil.
The wear of the brake shoes and pads.
Check the condition of the windshield wipers and the replacement bottle of windshield washer fluid.
Inspect under the car for possible leaks.
Perform a visual inspection of the bodywork for damage, corrosion, loose paint and trim, etc. It is important to perform these inspections to ensure that the car is in top condition and to prevent potential mechanical and safety problems.
Maintaining proper tire pressure is a crucial measure to extend tire life, reduce fuel consumption and maintain driving comfort. It is important to note that tire pressure can change with the seasons, so during the colder months it may be normal for the pressure to be lower. However, it is necessary to re-inflate the tires at this time to match the specified pressures and ensure they remain at an optimal level. In this way, the efficiency of the vehicle can be improved and ensure safe and comfortable driving.
It is important to regularly check the proper functioning of your car’s lights to ensure safe driving. One way to do this is by having someone press the brake pedal while the car’s ignition is in the “On” position or while the engine is running. Walk around the back of the car and make sure the brake lights work on both sides.
Then turn on your parking lights and walk around the car, making sure every corner is lit. Next, turn on the headlights and check that the lights are operational on both sides, in both low and high beam modes.
Finally, check the correct operation of the turn signals on both sides, front and rear, as well as the reversing lights and fog lights if your vehicle has them. It is important to pay attention to every detail to ensure that your lights are in good condition and do their job properly.
Checking the engine oil level and transmission fluid is important, but should be done with caution and following the proper steps. To begin with, the vehicle needs to be parked on a level spot and the engine must be cold. The lever to unlock the hood is usually located under the dash, on top of the kick pad to the right of the driver’s footwell. After opening the hood, lift the hood up and support it with the support rod that pivots into position from the front or side of the engine compartment. To check the oil level, the dipstick should be removed from the engine and cleaned with a rag or tissue before reinserting it to check the level. It is important to note that the dipstick can be identified by a brightly colored finger, such as yellow in some cases.
It is important to note that the procedure for checking the transmission fluid level may vary depending on the type of transmission the vehicle has. Some transmissions may require the engine to be running and the vehicle in a specific position (such as automatic transmissions). Therefore, it is advisable to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to check the transmission fluid level in your vehicle.
If the coolant level is below the minimum mark, it is necessary to add coolant to the tank. To do this, you must first check the type of coolant recommended for your car in your owner’s manual or on the engine information label in the engine compartment. Then, remove the overflow tank cap and pour coolant into the tank until the level is between the minimum and maximum level marks on the side of the tank. It is important not to open the radiator cap when the engine is hot to avoid serious burns.
It is important to check the brake fluid level regularly and make sure it is between the “minimum” and “maximum” marks on the reservoir. If the level is low, there may be a leak in the brake system and need to be repaired before adding more brake fluid. Also, the brake fluid should be replaced as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
As for the clutch fluid, it is also important to regularly check its level and make sure that it is between the “minimum” and “maximum” marks on the reservoir. If the level is low, there may be a leak in the clutch system and need to be repaired before adding more clutch fluid.
For hydraulic power steering, the fluid level should be checked in a similar fashion, making sure it is between the “minimum” and “maximum” marks on the reservoir. If the level is low, there may be a leak in the power steering system and it needs to be repaired before adding more fluid.
Also, it is recommended to add a windshield washer solution to the bottle of windshield washer for greater efficiency when cleaning the windshield. These products are sold at most auto parts stores and retail stores. Follow the instructions on the product label to determine the proper amount of washer solution to add to the bottle of windshield washer.
Also It is important to check tire pressure regularly and make sure they are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Incorrectly inflated tires can negatively affect fuel economy and vehicle performance, as well as increase the risk of a flat tire or blowout.
Besides, it is advisable to regularly inspect the front and rear lights, check turn signals and brake lights to make sure they are working properly. You should also check the car’s seat belts, horn, and other safety items to ensure they are in good working order.
It is important to note that if you hear concerning noises while driving, it is best to have your vehicle checked out by a qualified mechanic. Noises can be caused by a variety of mechanical and electrical problems, some of which can be dangerous if not properly repaired. Also, trying to fix the problem yourself can make the situation worse and damage your vehicle. Therefore, it is always best to let a qualified professional do the necessary repairs.