Car and Truck Basics & Maintenance at Home
Most of us rely on the mechanic which isn’t a bad idea but there are some basics you can keep an eye on yourself
The Basics
Checking the Oil
Prepare Your Vehicle: Park your vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Wait for a few minutes to allow the oil to settle.
Locate the Dipstick: Open the hood and find the dipstick, usually labeled with a bright handle. Pull it out and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth.
Check the Oil Level: Reinsert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again. Observe the oil level marked on the dipstick. It should be between the "low" and "full" marks. If it’s low, you need to add oil.
Inspect Oil Condition: Check the oil color and texture. It should be a clear amber color. If it’s dark or gritty, consider an oil change.
Changing a Flat Tire
Prepare for the Change: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and turn on your hazard lights. Remove the hubcap if necessary.
Loosen the Lug Nuts: Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire, turning them counterclockwise. Do not remove them completely yet.
Lift the Vehicle: Position a jack under the vehicle’s jack point and raise it until the flat tire is off the ground.
Remove the Flat Tire: Finish unscrewing the loosened lug nuts and take off the flat tire.
Install the Spare Tire: Align the spare tire with the wheel studs and push it onto the hub. Hand-tighten the lug nuts onto the studs.
Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack.
Tighten the Lug Nuts: Once the vehicle is down, use the lug wrench to securely tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
Replace Hubcap: If applicable, replace the hubcap onto the spare tire.
Opening the Hood
Locate the Hood Release: Inside the vehicle, find the hood release lever, usually located on the driver’s side near the footwell. Pull it to unlock the hood.
Release the Secondary Latch: Go to the front of the vehicle and find the secondary latch under the hood. Push or slide the latch to release the hood entirely.
Prop the Hood Open: Use the hood prop rod (if applicable) to hold the hood open securely for safety.
Make Your Inspection: With the hood open, check fluid levels, inspect belts and hoses, or perform any necessary maintenance.
TIP - Get a well stocked Emergency Roadside Kit to keep in the car in case of an emergency
Maintenance Items to Check
Oil Level: Check your engine oil level using the dipstick. Ensure it is within the recommended range and top it off if necessary.
Coolant Level: Inspect the coolant reservoir to ensure it's filled to the appropriate level. Low coolant can lead to overheating.
Tire Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of each tire, including the spare. Inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended PSI.
Tread Depth: Check the tire tread to ensure it has sufficient depth for safe driving. A simple penny test can help—insert a penny in the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, it’s time for new tires.
Brakes: Listen for any unusual noises when braking and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
Lights: Test all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and taillights. Replace any burned-out bulbs.
Windshield Wipers: Ensure your wiper blades are in good condition and functioning properly. Replace them if they are worn or leave streaks.
Battery: Look for corrosion around the battery terminals and check the battery's charge level if possible.
Air Filter: Inspect the engine air filter and replace it if it's dirty or clogged to ensure optimal engine performance.
Fluid Leaks: Look under your vehicle for any signs of leaks, such as oil, coolant, or transmission fluid.
Belts and Hoses: Check for any signs of wear, cracks, or fraying on belts and hoses under the hood.
Regular checks of these components can enhance the safety and performance of your vehicle.
TIP - Practice these at home with someone who can teach you so you are prepared when you need to be… I’ll have videos on things like changing a tire on my youtube page