3 Important Vehicle Checks

Whether you’re about to take a road trip or you’re simply maintaining your car, these three maintenance steps should always be on your list:

1. Check your oil level. Maintaining the correct level of engine oil is critical for preventing engine wear and tear. To check your oil, start by parking on a flat surface to get an accurate reading. With the engine off and the car cooled down, locate the oil dipstick under the hood. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth and then reinsert it before pulling it out again to check the oil level. The oil should be between the “minimum” and “maximum” marks on the dipstick. If it’s below the minimum, top it off with the appropriate type of oil for your vehicle.

2. Inspect your radiator coolant level. The radiator is responsible for keeping your engine cool, so low coolant levels can lead to overheating. Before checking your radiator, make sure your car is cold (preferably after sitting overnight) to avoid burns from hot coolant. Remove the radiator cap (usually at the front of the engine bay) and check to see that the coolant level reaches the top of the radiator or is at the “full” line in the reservoir tank. If the coolant is low, top it off according to your vehicle’s specifications.

3. Check your brake fluid and battery. A quick visual inspection of both components can help you avoid potential issues down the road. For the brake fluid, check the fluid level against the “minimum” and “maximum” markers on the reservoir. If the fluid is low, it may indicate a leak in the brake system or worn brake pads, so you should address this as soon as possible. For the battery, look for signs of corrosion around the terminals, which can appear as a white, powdery substance. If you notice corrosion, remove it with a battery cleaning solution or a mixture of baking soda and water.