You don’t need to be a mechanic to play an active role in your vehicle’s health. A simple, five-minute weekly check-up can help you catch potential issues early, saving you from costly repairs and dangerous situations down the road. Make this a regular part of your routine.
- Check Your Tires: Visually inspect all four tires for any obvious signs of damage or low pressure. Use a simple tire pressure gauge to ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch), which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb. Proper inflation improves fuel economy and safety.
- Test Your Lights: Have a friend or family member help you check that all exterior lights are working correctly. Test your headlights (both low and high beams), turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights. A burnt-out bulb is a safety hazard and a common reason for a traffic stop.
- Inspect Fluid Levels: With the engine cool and the car on level ground, check your essential fluids. This includes the engine oil (using the dipstick), coolant (checking the level in the overflow reservoir), and windshield washer fluid. These are typically easy to locate and top off if needed.
- Look Underneath: Briefly glance under the car where you normally park. Any new spots or puddles could indicate a fluid leak (e.g., dark brown for oil, bright green/pink for coolant) that needs immediate attention.
This quick routine builds your confidence and keeps you connected with the condition of your vehicle.
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