Vehicle Servicing Tips

Check the radiator and cooling system

Caution: Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. Allow it to cool for a few hours to avoid injury.

A quick check of your radiator coolant is as simple as looking at the level in the plastic overflow bottle in most cars. The coolant level should be between the upper and lower marks.

Once after that If When the engine has cooled down, you can remove the radiator cap and also check the
level in the radiator.

 If the level is low, top up with the vehicle manufacturer's recommended coolant or call the NRMA Motoring Advice team on 13 11 22.

If your car regularly requires coolant leaks, there may be a leak somewhere that could be a sign of a larger problem that needs professional evaluation. With the hood open, inspect the hoses and lines, e.g. These include those to and from the radiator and heater, the fuel lines, and any lines connected to the
with power steering or brakes.

With the the hoses and lines, e.g. B. those to and from the radiator and heater, the fuel lines and any lines connected to the power steering or brakes. Stains may indicate a leak and any soft, kinked, swollen or cracked hose should be replaced by a licensed mechanic.

2. Check your engine oil regularly

It is important to check your engine oil at least once a month. Problems with your oil can be easily overlooked if left on for too long and can cause costly damage to your engine. Here's how:

  1. Park your car on level ground

  2. Start the engine, let it run briefly, then switch it off

  3. While the engine is warm, remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth or paper towel. Reinstall the
    dipstick - make sure it is fully inserted or you will get an incorrect reading.

  4. Remove the dipstick and check the oil level.

It should be between the maximum and minimum values. If the oil level is low, add oil, but first check your owner's manual for the correct type of oil. Do not start the engine if there is no oil on the dipstick! An engine without oil can seize and repair is extremely expensive

3. Check your tires

Checking your tire pressure and general condition can help you extend your usage and make your car safer overall.

Don't forget to also check the spare tire if you have one!

Incorrect tire pressure can shorten the life of your tires and make your car less safe to drive. The correct tire pressure for your car can be found on the tire placard, which is usually located in one of the front doors. If you can't find it, check your owner's manual. It is helpful to have your own tire pressure gauge in your car as gauges at gas stations are not always accurate.

It is also important to check the tread of all tires. The minimum legal tread depth is 1.5mm anywhere on the tire surface. Tires have tread depth indicators in the grooves between the treads. When the tread is worn down to the level of a turn signal, it's time to change a tire.

Pro tip: If you have a spare, you can prolong the life of all your experiments by rotating them from time to time. Occasional use of the part also helps keep it in better condition: a part left in the trunk for years can dry out, making it more likely to crack.

4. Checking the health of your car battery

Caution: Your battery is potentially dangerous, so do not check it near an open flame or a lit cigarette. Batteries produce an explosive gas when charging and the liquid they contain is corrosive. Therefore avoid contact with eyes, skin, clothing and painted surfaces.

Checking the battery from time to time can save you the inconvenience of an unexpected discharge. You can check it regularly to increase its lifespan and be sure your car will start every time.

If your battery has caps, remove them and check that the liquid inside is deep enough to completely submerge the plates. Some batteries without removable covers have an indicator on the outside of the case that allows you to quickly check the status of the battery.

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