Small preventive measures go a long way in ensuring that you dont run up a hefty bill when you take care for serving
Your car goes through a lot of changes everytime you driveit. While there is no subtitute for a thorough check-up by taking it to a proper service centre, a few simple weekly checks will ensure that when the time comes to put it in the servicing bay, you wont burn a hole in your pocket . Ensure to read the owner's manual, as all basic instructions needed to carry out routine checks can be found in it. Here is a list of weekly checks that you should carry out in order to ensure that your car remains trouble freee....
Coolant
The coolant level in the coolant bottle should be checked every week. The coolant bottle is usually located close to the radiator. Since the coolant level fluctuates with changes in the engine temprature it's best to check the level when the engine is still cold.
The bottle will have a high and low level mark and the fluid levels should be between the two marks. If the coolant is in concentrate form, dilute it using distilled water. Never use tap water in your cooling system. For topping up always use coolant that is recommended by manufacturer.
Engine Oil
The engine oil not only lubricates the engine , it also keeps it clean, prevents corrosion as well keeps the engine cool by carrying away heat from the moving parts. When checking the level of engine oil, ensure that the car is parked on a flat surface, preferably with the engine cold. The best time to do this would be before you start the car in the morning. First remove the dipstick & wipe with a clean cloth and note the maximum and minimum levels. Now, reinsert the dipstick and remove it and note the oil level. It should be closer to the high level mark. Top up, If necessary. While topping use a small funnel as it will help prevent spillage. Remember, to reinsert the dipstick.
Battery
The battery is a much neglected part of the car's electrical system and the cause of the most breakdowns. Nowadays, with most batteries being sealed for life, the needed for the topping up of electrolyte is no longer required. However, ensure that the terminals are free of corrosion and that the battery case is clean and dry.
Apply little bit of grease to prevent moisture accumulation on the terminals. However, if your battery is non sealed type then check the level by removing the caps and ensure that the electrolyte covers the plates. Always top up with distilled water as tap water can contaminate the electrolyte and shorten the life of the battery.
Tyres
The tyres dictate a car's handling and braking performance. Maintain corrent air pressure level i all the tyres since in correct pressures can cause premature tyre wear and tear apart form poor handling. Over inflacted tyres can cause the car to aquaplane in the wet since the contact patch becomes smaller.
