Where Customer Service is NOT a department...it's an Attitude!

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Some easy maintenance tips Part2


Many maintenance items are user serviceable
    More and more, it seems today's modern vehicles are not user friendly. There are still
many things a consumer can do to help maintain a vehicle. I covered some fluid, tire and window
basics last week, and fluids need a little more coverage.

Know your levels
 '   Improper fluid levels can be detrimental to your vehicle. Over-filling a transmission or
engine can actually cause more problems, as the rotating parts whip the fluids into a frenzied
froth. (Easier to write than to say!) Air bubbles hurt the lubrication process, and can cause over-
pressurizing, leakage and even damage.

Dipstick, dipstick...who's got the dipstick
    Dipsticks are used to check the levels in various underhood components. Fluid levels
transmissions generally are checked with the engine at normal operating temperature, and
running, BUT, some vehicles such as Honda, are checked with the engine off...consult your
owner's manual or ask your service technician. Manual transmission and differential levels
should be left up to the service technician to check. They are checked with a fill plug on their
sides, and need to be up in the air to do it.

What do the marks mean?
    Ok, you now look at the dipstick and see some marks on it. There is usually an F (full)
and an L (low) on the engine's dipstick. The amount of fluid needed to raise the oil from the L to
the F marks is generally 1 quart. Add 1/2 quart to the engine and recheck it to be sure.
If it's now halfway between, then you know it still needs an additional 1/2 quart.
It's always better to be safe than to overfill it.


Keep your eyes on the road!



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