Vehicle Part
Items to Observe
Air Filter
Check the air filter every other month. Replace it when it’s dirty or as part of a tune-up. The air filter is located 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.
Battery
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. Cables should be attached securely and be free of corrosion. If battery has filler holes, add distilled water which you can purchase from gasoline stations.
Belts and Hoses
Inspect belts and hoses monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts. Tighten them when more than ½” 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.
Brake Fluid
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. Do Not Overfill.
Engine Oil
Check engine oil every other fill up. To check engine oil, 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 5,000 kilometers. 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. Have rusted or damaged parts replaced.
Exterior
A well maintained exterior is a sign of good maintenance and goes a long way in increasing its resale value. Wash regularly using car shampoo to keep rust at bay. Use chamois to wipe all the spots dry.
Interior
Use a vacuum to clean the car interior and prevent the deposition of any kind of sand, dust, grime or salt from damaging the floor surface. Wipe the dash, seats, instrument panel and the rear parcel shelf. Use special car cleaners and not household stuff for cleaning.
Lights
Be sure all your lights are clean and working, including brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers.
Oil Filter
To maintain peak performance, change oil every 5,000 kilometers.
Power Steering Fluid
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.
Radiator Coolant
Check the level weekly. Fill to level marking with 50/50 solution of radiator coolant and water. Caution: Do not remove the pressure cap when engine is hot.
Tires
Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure. Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tires are misaligned or out of balance. For tires to last longer, keep rotating the position of the tires and balance them at intervals of around 10,000 km
Washer Fluid
Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades
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.