Quick Under-the-Hood Maintenance Guide

Not too long ago, topping off fluids on your car every time you stopped for gas and tuneups every 15,000 miles were the norm. Modern cars don't require such close attention to keep them in working order and are more maintenance-free than ever, but it's still useful to know what you're looking at when you lift the hood of your car.

Your owners manual will have the most specific information for your car, so look for the section on under-the-hood checks. Remember that safety always comes first - almost all checks should be performed with the car off, but even some cars will keep cooling fans running after turning the key off, so keep your hands and loose clothing away from moving parts like fan blades and belts. If you're not comfortable with doing any of these things, please give our service department a call - they'll be happy to help out.

You should check these items periodically:

1. Engine oil - if an engine is low on oil, it can easily be damaged, so having the proper oil level is critical. To check the oil level, find the engine dipstick and remove it. Wipe it down with a paper town and resinsert it and pull it out again. The level should be between the low and full marks - but don't overfill engine oil, either.

2. Transmission fluid - on most automatic transmissions, this check should be performed with the engine warmed up and running and the car parked on a level surface. Remove the dipstick, wipe it off and insert and remove it again to check the fluid level - the fluid should be bright red and between the two indicated markings. It should not smell burnt or be overly dark in color.

3. Brake fluid - The hydraulic fluid in brake systems is enclosed in a sealed system, so you shouldn't have to fill it, although it's normal for the fluid level to drop a bit as the brake pads wear out over time. The fluid should be light and is typically amber in color - old fluid appears darker. Since brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, it's important to change the fluid according to your owners manual in order to keep your brakes in good working condition.

4. Power steering fluid - Like the brake system, this fluid system is sealed and you shouldn't have to top it off; otherwise there could be a leak in the system. There is typically a dipstick attached to the reservoir cap or markings on the side of clear reservoirs to indicate fluid level.

5. Coolant - DO NOT remove the radiator or coolant reservoir cap on a car that has just been running, as the pressure can force hot coolant out and cause burns. On newer cars, the coolant reservoir reserve tank is usually clear and has markings on the side to indicate the fluid level in the system. Some systems have markings indicating what the level should be at when the car is cold and when it is hot - since coolant expands with temperature.

6. Battery - Most modern batteries are sealed and maintenance free, with a clear 'eye' that indicates the charge level. The terminal connections should be clean and dry without corrosion or leaks.

7. Windshield washer fluid - Make sure you keep the fluid topped off with the right fluid for the season; using summer formulations in the winter in freezing weather can cause pumps and lines to freeze and cause damage.

8. Belts and hoses - Your mechanic should perform a check on these items during each oil change. Belts can be damaged by cracking or glazing, and you can do a quick check on the condition of your hoses by checking them for cracking, seeping or sponginess. There are many other hoses and belts that you might not be able to see from under the hood - so make sure they are regularly inspected by your mechanic.

We hope this quick guide has been helpful - you should keep an eye on these items between visits to our service department to minimize any surprises. If you have any questions, please call our friendly service advisors and they'll be happy to answer any questions you have.