on the top, which could require a screwdriver to pop off. The cap may have
the words “USE ONLY DOT
3 OR
4 BRAKE FLUID.” It is normal for the brake-fluid
level to ebb as your brake pads wear. If fluid is needed, use fluid from a sealed
container only and open the reservoir for only the time needed to replace it.
Brake fluid must keep a high boiling point; air in the reservoir adds moisture
and decreases it. The fluid is highly toxic, so keep it away from your hands,
eyes and the automobile’s paint. Do not allow it to spill on the ground.
Dispose of used containers by depositing in a hazardous-waste container.
Power steering fluid
When you check the fluid level, it should not deviate from the “NORMAL”
mark. If you find you have to add fluid more than once or twice a year, have
the system checked for leaks. As with the transmission system, driving with a
subnormal fluid level can easily damage the steering system. If you hear a
buzzing or wheezing noise when you turn the wheel, that’s a sign of low fluid.
Battery
Many car batteries claim to be maintenance free, meaning you don’t
need to check the water. But you should check your battery to be sure it is
clean and dry, and corrosion free around the terminals. If corrosion is present, use a wire brush with a solution of baking soda and water to remove it.
If moisture and corrosion are always present, have a mechanic check it.
Coolant (antifreeze) level
If you must open the radiator cap to check the coolant level, be sure the car
is cool. The contents of the radiator are under extremely high pressure and, if
hot, could erupt like a geyser, with the liquid exceeding the temperature of boiling water. Check the reserve tank first. It is usually a translucent container near
the radiator and will have two markings—“FULL” and “LOW.” The fluid level
should be somewhere in between. If the reserve tank is empty, add coolant and
water (in a 50-50 ratio) directly into the radiator. If the level continuously falls to
“LOW” or below, you should have the system checked by a mechanic.
Belts and hoses
You can tell a lot about belts and hoses just by looking at them. With the
car cool, try to squeeze the radiator hose. It, and the belts, should be free from
cracks and brittleness and should feel firm to the pinch. Visibly inspect for any
ballooning. Check the belts for proper tension, as well as cracks and wear.
Servicing
guidelines
If your vehicle does not have its
own list of when to go for a checkup
and what to have checked, use
these guidelines.
7,500 miles. Get a lubrication,
change oil and oil filter, rotate tires,
check brakes and perform a complete
safety check.
11,250 miles. Change oil and
oil filter.
15,000 miles. Get a lubrication,
change oil and oil filter, rotate tires,
check brakes, check transmission,
clean air filter and perform a complete
safety check.
18,750 miles. Change oil and
oil filter.
22,500 miles. Get a lubrication,
change oil and oil filter, rotate tires,
check brakes and perform a complete
safety check.
26,250 miles. Change oil and
oil filter.
30,000 miles. Get a lubrication,
change oil and oil filter, rotate tires,
check brakes, replace air filter, replace
spark plugs, adjust valves (unless
hydraulic), check timing, flush brake
fluid, change transmission fluid,
flush cooling system and perform a
complete safety check.—SF
Source: Autoweb
Tires
All tires should be inflated according to manufacturer guidelines and free
from extreme wear. Do the penny test to determine tread health. Insert a
penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head pointing into the tread. If you can
see the top of the head, it’s time for new tires. If you are putting air in a tire
frequently, there is probably a leak. Tires should wear evenly, across all four
tires. If one tire, or one side of tires, appears to be wearing disproportionately
to the others, you may need a wheel alignment.—Steve Fisher
Sources:
www.familycar.com; How to Do Just About Everything,
Simon & Schuster (2000)
