While there is nothing wrong with relying on professional service technicians to ensure the various components of a vehicle are in working order, a basic checkup is an easy do-it-yourself project. The key to DIY car inspections is knowing what to check, how to check it, and having the right tools.
A Short Step Beyond the Visual Inspection
It all begins with a walk around the vehicle. Inspect windshield wiper blades, replace them if they are worn or torn, and check tire pressure. When using a digital gauge, make sure to have spare batteries handy. All tires have markings indicating the proper air pressure; remember to check the spare tire, too. Adding an inflator to the basic tool collection allows for 24/7 top-offs. Inflator models are available powered by 110V household current or an automotive 12V outlet, with others using the same rechargeable battery as found on a cordless drill.
After checking tire pressure, inspect the tires for nails or screws that can cause a leak, as well as for the amount of tread left. Objects in the tire or worn tires are both hazards that need to be addressed as soon as possible by professionals. On a related note, check the lug nuts for correct torque a few days after getting new tires. This requires a torque wrench, which is actually an easily mastered tool. Refer to the vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the prescribed torque required, and adjust the wrench’s dial to that setting. Using the correct size socket, tighten the lug nut until it makes one “click” sound, indicating the torque is correct.
While driving, pay attention to Check Engine Light icons and instrument panel warning messages such as low brake pads or underinflated tires.
Filling Up on Fluids
Checking fluid levels is another easy project. Some vehicles have digital displays that provide an alert of low fluid levels, but it is wise to manually check the levels of motor oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, and transmission fluid. For best results, these fluids should be checked while the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine has been off long enough to allow the engine bay to cool. Refer to the owner’s manual to find the various dipsticks or reservoirs, and wear protective gloves and eye protection.
On newer vehicles, coolant levels are no longer checked by removing the radiator cap, a practice that can be dangerous while the vehicle is hot or the radiator is pressurized. Coolant reservoirs usually have markings that make checking levels easy and fast. If low, add the proper coolant called for in the owner’s manual.
Oil levels can be checked by removing and inspecting the dipstick to see if there is oil in the “safe zone” marked on the dipstick itself. If the oil level is low, after referring to the owner’s manual to find the proper oil to use and the location of the port that allows oil to be added, pour in a tiny bit at a time, checking the dipstick often. Stop when it reaches the safe zone, taking care not to overfill the engine with oil. Transmission fluid levels are also often checked by inspecting a dipstick, while power steering fluid and brake fluid can be checked by opening and inspecting the level of the reservoirs for each.
When checking the level of the brake fluid, don’t allow anyone to depress the brake pedal, because doing so can create an air bubble in the system that will degrade braking ability. If that happens, it’s critical to have a knowledgeable person bleed the brake system and replenish it with the appropriate brake fluid; the reservoir cap and the owner’s manual should provide this information. Brake fluid should be changed at least every two years or so because it attracts moisture that can damage the overall system. This is a chore best left to professionals or car owners with advanced skill levels and the correct tools.
Add windshield fluid whenever the reservoir is low; in a pinch, it is absolutely OK to use water. Checking the battery is very simple with a digital multimeter, which can often be purchased for under $20. If the multimeter displays 12 or more volts, all is well. Levels below 12 could be an indication that the battery is either not fully charged or isn’t holding a full charge.
If the battery has reservoirs for fluid, carefully check them, adding distilled water if any are low, and always wear protective gloves and glasses! For owners who feel ambitious and have a car they’ve owned for two or more years, check the owner’s manual to locate the cabin filter and replace it to keep the interior pleasing.
Be a DIY Car Tech
How to keep your car in tip-top shape.
It’s All in the Details
At least once per month, walk around the vehicle, looking at the tires and wiper blades, to ensure they are in good condition. Then open the hood and check fluid levels, adding any that may be low.
Read the Manual
The owner’s manual advises where to check fluid levels and what fluids to use if any are below the minimum level.
Basic Tools
A few simple tools, including a tire pressure gauge, a flashlight, eye protection, and mechanic’s gloves, make it easy to give your car a fast checkup. Add a torque wrench, multimeter, battery load tester, and a coolant system pressure tester as your skills advance.
