Your car contains a number of mechanical systems that require fluids to function properly. When you bring your car in for automotive repairs, your technician will check the fluid levels to ensure your vehicle remains in great condition. Between visits to your mechanic, you can also check and maintain your car’s fluids yourself. This task […]
Your car contains a number of mechanical systems that require fluids to function properly. When you bring your car in for automotive repairs , your technician will check the fluid levels to ensure your vehicle remains in great condition. Between visits to your mechanic, you can also check and maintain your car’s fluids yourself. This task takes very little time and will significantly prolong the lifetime of your vehicle.
Maintaining Oil
Oil is essential to the engine’s function. It should be replaced at regular intervals, which will depend upon the type of oil you use. Between oil changes, you can check your engine’s oil level using the dipstick located near the front of the engine. Once you find the handle, remove it and clean the stick with a dry rag. Reinsert the stick into the receptacle, then pull it out again to examine the oil level. There are two hash marks on the dipstick, and your oil level should fall between them. If the level is too low, add a quart of oil and check the level again. Avoid overfilling the oil reservoir, as too much oil can also damage the engine.
Maintaining Coolant
Too little coolant can cause your car’s engine to overheat, resulting in engine damage that may strand you on the side of the road. Use your car’s manual to locate the radiator under the hood. Open the radiator cap and inspect the interior; if you can see coolant near the top of the opening, you don’t need to add fluid. If the fluid appears low, you’ll need to add engine coolant in a 50/50 ratio of half coolant and half water. Always turn your engine off before checking the coolant levels—opening the radiator cap while the engine is on could cause fluid to overflow and cause severe burns.
Whether you need repairs or just have questions about your car’s performance, the expert mechanics at Automotive Recalibration Center of Tucson are here to help. Check us out on the web or call (520) 433-4147 to find out more about preventive maintenance, repairs, and automotive fleet maintenance .