What parts of my car require regular checks?
Regular checks simply mean paying attention to some of the major components of your vehicle so that any problems or maintenance needs are promptly addressed. Check the following parts of your vehicle weekly:
Tires: Check the condition of the tires for punctures, cuts, abrasions, delaminations and bulges. Make sure the steel cable is not visible.
Tire pressure: If you drive frequently, check your tires every time you refuel to make sure they are properly inflated. If you rarely fill up, check your tires every week.
Body and bumper damage: Walk around the car once a week to check for new damage, including bumps and scratches. Check carefully for signs of rust.
Stoplights and headlights: Once a month, at night, when parking safely, turn on the headlights to make sure all the lights are on. To check your brake lights, back up to a wall, depress and hold your brake pedal, and use your side and rear mirrors to see both brake lights reflected in the wall.
Warning lights on the dashboard: When starting, check the instrument panel for warning lights and check the car's owner's manual for lights that come on. Don't let yourself fall into the habit of ignoring these lights.
fluid leak under car: Use a flashlight to find power steering fluid, brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and radiator fluid (antifreeze).
