How often do you think of the inner workings of your vehicle? If you are not an automotive engineer, I am guessing not that often. Below are 10 basic things drivers should know if they want to maintain their vehicles themselves. These include changing a tyre, checking motor oil, checking tyre pressure along with others.
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE CONSULT YOUR MECHANIC OR SERVICE CENTRE BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY KIND OF CAR MAINTENANCE.
1
Adding Windshield Wiper Fluid
One of the most important aspects of driving is the ability to see the road clearly, especially on days of low visibility, rain, mist or fog. During these times your windshield wipers must work at optimum level. Adding windshield wiper fluid will ensure your visibility is perfect so that your driving is not hindered. Just open the bonnet and look for the cap with the windshield wiper on it. Pop the cap and add your fluid. It’s that easy.
2
Replacing Windshield Wipers
Replacing your windshield wipers is fairly easy. They should be replaced if the blades are smearing and no longer wiping. There’s a button at the end of the arm you push to release the blade or slide it into a hook at the end of the arm. If you are having issues please consult the dealer where you purchased your new wiper blades.
3
Checking Motor Oil
An important component of your vehicle is the oil. it is super easy to check. Ensure your vehicle is on an even service. Wait a few minutes to let the oil settle as it may not have fully drained into the pan. Pull the dipstick out and wipe it off with a rag or paper towel. Push the dipstick back in and pull it out again and check the reading. If it is in between “Low” and “Full” you are good to go.
4
Adding Motor Oil
If your motor oil is low it is fairly easy to fill. Ensure that the oil is the right viscosity for your vehicle. The place where you buy your oil should advise you. Locate and open the filler cap under your bonnet. Crack open the oil can and fill in small increments until you reach the optimal amount. Be careful not to add too much oil as this is not good for your vehicle. Care engines usually 4 or 5 quarts but it does vary.
5
Checking Tyre Pressure
Checking the tyre pressure is another fairly simple task. Remove the valve cap and stick a gauge firmly over the valve. Ensure it sits firmly so that there are no leaks. It is best to maintain the factory recommended pressure settings on your tyres. These settings can be found on the driver’s side door panel. After the reading inflate or deflate as required.
6
Changing a Flat Tyre
Being able to change a flat tyre is very important for any driver. This skill will come in handy should you have a flat tyre and you cannot get roadside assistance or assistance takes too long. Ensure that you have an inflated spare tyre, jack and wheel spanner in your boot. To replace a flat tyre ensure your car is stationary on a flat service. Using the wheel spanner loosen the nuts on the flat tyre. Place the jack on the side of the car where the flat is and raise car until you can remove the flat tyre. Replace the flat with the spare and screw in the nuts. Next release the jack and tighten the nuts. Ensure that they are tight as they should be. You are now good to go.
7
Jump Starting a Car
Every driver should be able to jump start a car. This is helpful should your battery be drained for whatever reason. You will require a set of jumper cables, a portable charger or another vehicle. The most important thing to remember is DO NOT mix up the leads. The positive end must go to the positive terminal on the battery and the negative to the negative terminal. The red end is positive and the black is negative. Connect the terminals from the powered car or battery charger to the flattened battery. Turn on the powered car or battery charger. Give it a minute or two then start the car with the flattened battery. The car should now turn on.
8
Replacing the Air Filter
An air filter that is clogged will hinder the flow of air and reduce the engine output. The location of the air filter varies from vehicle to vehicle but it is usually under a rectangular housing with the lid held in place with screws or clips. Just pop it off and gain access to the filter, The new filter should drop right in place but make sure it is oriented the right way.
9
Inspecting the Serpentine Belt
As a driver you should be able to inspect the serpentine belt provided it is not hidden under many layers of plastic shrouds. Check the belt for abrasions or corrosion. Should there be any corrosion or abrasion it is recommended that you take it in to your service centre for a replacement. If you can replace it on your own, you are a legend.
10
Checking the Cooling System
A critically important component of your vehicle is its cooling system. Depending on where you live it has to deal with erratic temperatures regularly. Look out of chafing, cracking, swelling or weeping hoses. If they burst you will be left stranded. Ensure there is enough coolant in the overflow reservoir. Add more if require. The system is overdue for a flush if the antifreeze is discoloured or rusty.
