Little TLC for Your Auto - A Car Care Checklist

As winter approaches and temperatures drop near freezing your automobile should get a little TLC.   To make sure that your car starts when you want it to and runs smoothly consider the following Car Care Checklist:   

Oil, Filters and Fluids

Check your oil level with the engine off at every fill-up.  For maximum engine life, change oil and filter every three months or 3,000 miles.  In every case check your manufacturer’s manual for their recommendations. 

Fuel Filter

Inspect the filter at each oil change.  Replace the filter if it is restricted or water contaminated or at least once every two years with fuel injector engines or every 24,000 miles. 

Engine Air Filter

Inspect your air filter at each oil change.  Remember that the appropriate air-fuel mixture improves fuel economy.  Do not allow a dirty air filter to rob you of mileage.  Replace annually or when torn, water or oil soaked, dirty or showing signs of wear.  Check the seals to make sure that they are tight. 

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Check your transmission fluid level with the engine running and the vehicle in park.  For maximum performance, change the transmission fluid every 24,000 miles or every two years.

Power Steering Fluid

Check the fluid with car warmed up.  If frequent topping off is necessary, inspect the system for leaks and replace if the fluid is contaminated. 

Coolant

Antifreeze is absolutely important in every season. It keeps your car from freezing in the winter and overheating in the summer.  Check the level in the reservoir.  NEVER open a hot radiator cap!  If it is low, add a 50/50 mix of approved antifreeze and distilled water.  Change your engine coolant at least once a year for most vehicles.  Check your car manual for the best recommendation.  

Steering, Suspension and Tires

Inspect steering and suspension systems at least once a year.  Check your shock absorber, the struts and chassis parts, such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related parts.  Replace these parts if leaks, damage and loose mounting hardware are found. 

Check your tire pressure at every oil change.  Do not forget to inspect the spare in the trunk.  Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear, cuts and bruises in the sidewalls of the tire.  Inflate tires and maintain at recommended pressure as listed on the sidewall of the tire.  Replace tires if worn or damaged. 

Check your Battery and Cables

Nothing is more annoying than turning your key and hearing that clicking sound of a dead battery.  If your batter is three years old or more it should be tested and replaced as necessary. Make sure that the battery is properly mounted and secured, so that it does not shift or move when the car is in motion.  The batter connections should be clean, tight and corrosion free. 

With regular maintenance you may enjoy many miles of trouble-free driving.  Make the investment to keep your 4-wheel investment running at peak condition. 

Source: Car Care Guide © 2006 Car Care Council