Make sure to properly dispose of the coolant, as it can taste sweet and be enticing to kids and pets.Let the car run for a few minutes with the radiator cap off to remove any air pockets, top off the coolant to the fill line (if the level dropped while running), and replace the cap.Add new coolant in whatever ratio of coolant to water is outlined in the manual.Let the car run for 10 minutes, then drain that mixture out the same way as before.Remove the coolant cap, add flush cleaning solution and water (based on the manufacturer's instructions), and replace the cap.Drain the coolant, then replace the drain plug.Place a receptacle under the drain plug and remove it.Start with a car that's been parked for a while (cool engine) on a flat surface.Check your owner's manual for their recommended intervals for flushing the coolant, and if it's time, here's what to do: Coolant can get rust, dirt and particles in it, and contaminated fluids could damage the engine. The radiator keeps your engine cool, and flushing ensures that the system is working correctly. If there's corrosion buildup, you'll need to clean the terminals. Then test the battery (or have an auto shop test the battery) to see what percentage the battery is operating at. If it's low, charge it, and if the battery is bad, it will need to be replaced. Follow the steps in your owner's manual if you need to switch it out. Test and charge or replace the batteryĭo a visual check of the battery terminal and make sure everything looks clean. The transmission fluid should also be smooth and clean if you find metal flakes, take your vehicle to a mechanic so they can change it out. Look under the hood for the dipstick labeled "transmission." Repeat the same steps you just did for checking your oil. Transmission fluid allows a vehicle to change gears smoothly, so checking it before a road trip is a crucial step. If the level doesn't hit between these lines, add more. Top off any low fluidsĪgain, consult the manual for steps to check and add transmission, power steering and brake fluid. These will all have reservoirs located under the hood, and you should see the minimum and maximum lines. Don't get into a higher level of maintenance than you feel comfortable with. Turn off the car and check the dipstick to ensure proper levels.Įach make and model are different, so consult your manual to find out how to replace the oil, air, in-cabin and fuel filters. See a mechanic if any of the steps seem complicated (some vehicles require you to remove parts to access some of the filters).Start the engine to ensure the oil pressure light doesn't come on, and let it run for several minutes.Pour in new oil up to the proper level, and replace the cap.Prepare the new filter by smearing a bit of clean oil on the gasket ring, then screw in the new filter and replace the oil plug.Unscrew the oil filter over the drain pan. Wait several minutes for the oil to drain.Place a drain pan underneath the engine, open the hood and remove the oil cap, then remove the oil plug under the vehicle.Jack up the vehicle (follow these safety tips) and use jack stands to secure it.Pull the car onto level ground and let it run for about 10 minutes to warm up the oil.If they include steps to follow, use your manual. Check the owner's manual for the type and weight of the oil you need (it's critical to follow their recommendations for oil viscosity to prevent engine damage). You can take your car to a mechanic for this, but it's actually pretty easy to do on most vehicles. If it's not full or it's dark or thick, it's time to change the oil. It should be at the "full" line, and the fluid should be clear. Look at the end of the stick and see where the oil level is. Ready to get started? Check and change the oilĪfter a short drive, when the engine is still warm, locate the dipstick labeled "oil," pull it out and wipe off the residue with a towel.
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