Preventive Maintenance Check List |
| Preventive maintenance is an essential step
of defensive driving. This page is a detailed description
of what items should be checked weekly on a personally owned
vehicle. Most of the checks and services are done at little
or no cost. Best of all, the checks are done easily and quickly
to save time, money and inconvenience in the future. Always
refer back to your owner’s manual when performing any
maintenance task to your vehicle. |
Under the Hood
|
- Check the coolant level weekly. Some cars have transparent
reservoirs with a level marking. Fill to level marking with
50/50 solution of anti-freeze and water. CAUTION: NEVER
OPEN THE RADIATOR CAP WHEN ENGINE IS HOT
- Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed
and frayed belts.
- Check transmission fluid monthly while the engine is warm
and running, and parking brake is on. DO NOT OVER FILL!
- Check engine oil every other fill up. To maintain top
perform, get a oil change every 3000 miles or three months,
which one comes first. Replace the fuel filter too.
- Check the air filter every month. Replace is when becomes
dirty or every tune up.
- Check brake fluid monthly. In need to fill, add the approved
type and check for possible leaks in the system.
- Check windshield wiper fluid. In winter, keep an eye on
the freezing point of the fluid.
- Check the battery weekly. With every tune up, have the
mechanic check the battery. Make sure it has no corrosion
and the cables are attached securely.
- Check power steering fluid monthly. Inspect the pump and
hoses for leaks.
Around the Car
- Inspect windshield wiper blades. Blades should be replaced
once a year or when smearing or chattering occurs.
- Make sure all lights are clean and working. This list
includes brake, turn and emergency flashers. Keep spare
bulbs and fuses in vehicle.
- Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure. Check the
tires for holes, rips, tears and excessive tread wear. Also
check the nuts and bolts to make sure the tight and firm.
- Look around and under the car for any leakage.
- Look underneath the vehicle for any loose or broken exhaust
clamps or supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes.
- Check all mirrors around the vehicle.
|
The above steps should not be a replacement
for taken your vehicle to a professional mechanic for a checkup.
Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you! |
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