This lesson on general maintenance might be one of the most useful for Automotive Lift Repair Orlando vehicle owners to learn how to care for their own vehicles. We’ll cover the vehicle owner’s manual, vehicle fluids, fuses, belts and hoses, vehicle lighting, and the air filter.

 Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Vehicle Owner’s Manual

All vehicles are different in their own ways. Each vehicle will come equipped with an owner’s manual, and it’s always in your best interest to familiarize yourself with it. Although it might seem thick, complicated, and dull at first glance, vehicle owners should get familiar and comfortable with the owner’s manual. It’s not so daunting once you start reading it. The index can guide you to almost any maintenance topic you need.

The owner’s manual includes a maintenance chart. This chart provides information on when to change the oil, rotate tires, replace the air filter, inspect the fuel cap and lines, change other fluids (such as transmission fluid), and other maintenance tasks. 

Knowing the maintenance chart can help you save money when taking your car to the mechanic. Sometimes, repair shops suggest additional services that aren’t necessary (see Lesson 11).

If you don’t have the owner’s manual for your car, you might be able to find one online by using Google or another search engine. Search the website for the make of the vehicle, or you could try your local library.

 Vehicle Fluids

Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Vehicle fluids include brake fluid, engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid, and battery fluid. Information on fluid levels and the location of each reservoir can be found in the owner’s manual for your particular vehicle.

 Brake Fluid

On most vehicles, the brake fluid reservoir is clear, allowing you to check the fluid level without removing the cap. This fluid usually does not need topping off during maintenance; low fluid indicates a problem. If the fluid is low, you may want to consult a mechanic, depending on your skill level. Most vehicles have a dashboard light that illuminates when the brake fluid is low (we’ll cover dashboard lights in Lesson 3 and brakes in Lesson 10).

 Engine Oil

Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Engine oil should be checked each time you refuel your vehicle. Most engines have a dipstick to indicate the oil level, typically with a yellow handle. Follow these steps to check the oil:

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Remove the dipstick.

3. Wipe the end of the dipstick with a rag or paper towel.

4. Reinsert the dipstick.

5. Remove it again to check the level at the tip.

The dipstick has marks indicating the oil level. The “add” mark typically signifies one quart low. If your engine is leaking oil, repair costs can vary depending on the needed repair and the make and model of the vehicle.

 Automotive Lift Repair Orlando Coolant

Never open the cooling system if the engine is hot! If you’ve just been driving, wait before opening it. After you think the engine has cooled, lightly touch the radiator cap to test it. If it’s still hot, do not open it. Opening the radiator cap while the engine is hot can shoot a six-foot geyser into the air and cause burns. 

A very small amount of coolant evaporation can occur over time, but needing more than one quart indicates a problem.

If the coolant is low, replenish it with the proper type and mixture. Consult the owner’s manual for the correct coolant type. It’s important to use distilled water to avoid impurities that could damage the system over time. Pre-mixed coolant in a 50/50 solution is also available.

 Power Steering Fluid

There may be a clear reservoir for power steering fluid, which can be checked the same way as brake fluid. If not, it will have a dipstick. Refer to the owner’s manual for the reservoir location and the type of fluid to use. Low power steering fluid indicates a leak that should be investigated, as it may also affect steering performance.

 Windshield Washer Fluid

Windshield washer fluid may have a clear reservoir or a dipstick. Refer to the owner’s manual for the location. In cold climates, below 32 degrees, ensure you use washer fluid with antifreeze.

 Transmission Fluid

Refer to the Automotive Lift Repair Orlando owner’s manual for the location of the transmission fluid. Some vehicles have a dipstick, but many newer vehicles do not. In some cases, you may need to go underneath the vehicle to check the fluid. Low fluid indicates a leak that should be investigated. The fluid should be red; if it’s black and/or has a burnt smell, there is a problem with the transmission.

 Battery Fluid and Terminals

If the Automotive Lift Repair Orlando battery is clear, you can check the fluid level. Any corrosion or signs of leaks around the battery indicate a problem. Corrosion can appear as a green or white powdery substance and should never come into contact with skin or eyes, as it is acidic and will burn. If corrosion is present, the battery may need replacement or there may be an issue with the charging system. Excessive discharging of the battery without the engine running (e.g., listening to the radio, keeping the cab lights on) can cause the battery to overheat, leading to early failure and leakage of battery acid. If the battery fluid is low, refill it with distilled water only. Never add acid to a battery.

The presence of corrosion indicates a problem that should be addressed. However, as a temporary fix, you can clean off the corrosion to get the car started. Rinse the corrosion with a garden hose, then disconnect the terminals starting with the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. Use a mixture of baking soda and water or battery terminal cleaner to rinse off the terminals and battery posts. The baking soda will react with the corrosion, forming fizz and bubbles. Use a wire brush or scraper to clean the inside of the terminal and battery posts, then rinse again with more water. Once clean, reattach the terminals starting with the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal. Cleaning off the corrosion is a temporary fix, and the underlying problem should be addressed.