Preventative Maintenance That You Can Do Yourself
The vehicle's fluids are very important and should be checked regularly. These fluids include the following:
• Brake fluid - This check is done by loosening the clip/cap on the master cylinder and removing the lid. If fluid is needed, consult the vehicle owner's manual for correct type and fill to the recommended level.
• Engine Oil - Correct engine oil level should be maintained to assure a proper lubrication of your vehicle's engine. It is best to check the engine oil level approximately five minutes after a fully warmed engine is turned off or before starting the engine after it has sat for a long period of time (overnight). Remove the engine oil dipstick, wipe the dipstick clean with a lint free cloth or paper towel. Reinsert the dipstick until it fully seats in it tube. Remove the dipstick and read the oil level. Add oil only when the level is at or below the ADD OIL mark.
• Power Steering Fluid - This check is done by removing and checking the dipstick.
Note: The dipstick is attached to the cap or the power steering reservoir. Use the dipstick to check fluid level in the same manner as you would check your engine oil.
• Transmission/Transaxle Fluid - This check should be done when the engine is running in neutral and the parking brake securely set. The transmission should be at operating temperature. Remove the dipstick, wipe clean, insert and remove again to check fluid level. CAUTION: DO NOT OVERFILL.
• Windshield Washer Solvent - This check should be done by removing the cap of the reservoir and refilling with solvent.
• Antifreeze - This check is done by removing the radiator cap from a cool engine and refilling, if needed, with antifreeze. Always inspect your radiator overflow level when checking the radiator.
