Performing routine inspections is important to keep a vehicle in top running condition. Operating a vehicle with low fluid levels can cause serious damage to vehicle components. Driving a car will low tire pressure or damaged tires can cause an unsafe driving condition with an increased chance of a blowout. To help prevent costly repairs as well as unsafe driving conditions, a routine comprehensive vehicle inspection should be performed.
Under the Hood Vehicle Checks
The majority of car inspections are performed under the hood. Checking fluid levels and visual checks of engine components are all done under the hood of the vehicle. One of the best methods of performing vehicle checks is when the car is filled with fuel. The following checks can usually be performed while the vehicle is filling up.
Checking the Engine Oil Level
The engine oil level should be checked on a level surface when the engine is warmed up and the engine is not running. Pull out the oil level indicator or dipstick from the metal tube. Wipe off the oil from the indicator with a clean rag or paper towel and reinsert indicator in tube.
Pull out the oil level indicator a second time and ensure the engine oil is between the marks on the indicator. If the oil is below the bottom mark, add a quart of engine oil and recheck the indicator. To add engine oil remove the oil cap (usually marked “oil”) normally found on the engine valve cover. It’s important to add the proper oil weight and classification.
Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid Level
When checking the automatic transmission fluid, the vehicle should also be on a level surface but the engine needs to be running. The transmission indicator is usually similar in design to the engine oil indicator. Use the same procedure for checking the transmission fluid level as checking the engine oil level. If transmission fluid is needed, ensure that the proper transmission fluid is used for the vehicle. Transmission fluid is normally added through the indicator tube.
Other Under the Hood Inspections and Checks
- Coolant or antifreeze level in most modern cars can be checked by visually examining the coolant recover tank. The tank is normally transparent with a level mark on the outside of the tank.
- Brake fluid level, like coolant level in most modern cars is transparent and can be visually inspected.
- Power steering fluid level usually has an indicator built into the cap on the power steering reservoir. Simply remove the cap and look at the fluid on the indicator.
- Visually inspect all hoses for leaks and serpentine belts for cracks.
Besides checking under the hood for proper fluid levels, routine vehicle maintenance is also important to keep the vehicle in top running condition. When vehicle maintenance is performed, a trained automotive technician should perform a comprehensive under car inspection. To ensure safe driving conditions, brakes and tires should also be inspected as a routine.
James Clausen - Clausen received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration in Automotive Management and Marketing at Northwood University, graduating ...
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