• Finding Your Way Under The Hood & Around The Car

Whether or not you pump your own gas your car probably receives less attention than it should. Regular maintenance checks and service reduce the cost of vehicle ownership. These should include periodic diagnostic checks of engine fuel, ignition and emissions control systems.

• For maximum fuel efficiency and cleaner air keep your engine in tune. 
• For safe driving keep brakes, steering and suspension systems in A-1 condition. 

Most of the checks and services shown here can be done at little or no cost they're quick and easy to do and they can save time, money and inconvenience now and later.  

Under the hood

1. Check the anti-freeze /coolant level weekly. Newer cars have see-through reservoirs with level markings. Top off with 50/50 solution of permanent anti-freeze and water. Caution: Don't remove the pressure cap when the engine is hot.
2. Inspect belts monthly. Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts tighten them when they have more than 1/2" of slack when depressed between the pulleys. Replace bulging or rotten hoses and tighten clamps. 
3. Check transmission fluid with engine warm and running, parking brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert and pull it Again add fluid if needed. Do not overfill! 
4. Check oil every other fill up. Remove the dipstick, wipe it insert it and remove it it again. If it's low add oil
5. Check the air filter every month or two.  Replace it when it's dirty or as part of tune-up.  It's easy to reach, right under the big metal "lid"
6. Check brake fluid monthly. First wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid. If you need fluid add the approved type and check for possible leaks. 
7. Keep windshield washer reservoir full. When topping off, use some solvent on a rag to clean off the wiper blades.
8. Check the battery monthly in cold weather, weekly in hot weather and daily on long trips.  Make sure the cables are attached securely and free of corrosion. Check fluid level. If yours has filler holes add water as needed. Note: do not smoke or light a match near a battery. 
9. Power steering fluid: Check level once a month. Simply remove the reservoir. Dipstick. If the level is down add fluid

1. Around the car 

   10. Inspect windshield wiper blades Whenever you clean your wind shield. Do not wait until rubber is worn or brittle to replace them. Wiper blades Should be replaced at least once a year. More often if smearing or chattering occurs.
   11. Be sure all your lights are working, including brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Keep them clean, too. 
   12. Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure (it helps to own helps to own your own gauge). Check for cuts, bulges And excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates misalignment or out-of-balance.
   13. Look for signs of oil see page on shock absorbers. Test shock action by bouncing car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always replace in pairs. 
   14. Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and  supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace rusted  or damaged parts

   A comprehensive vehicle inspection should include: 

   • Cooling system components, including pressure test 
   • Battery and electrical system, including alternator output 
   • General engine performance 
   • Fuel system, including computer controls 
   • All fluids 
   • Ignition system, including computer controls 
   • Tires, including spare 
   • Steering and suspension system, including shocks and struts (CV boots where applicable) 
   • Wheel balance and alignment, four wheel balance on front wheel drive vehicles 
   • Braking system, including drums, rotors, hydraulics and electronic components 
   • Emission control system components 
   • Air conditioner / heater / defroster 
   • Instruments and gauges 
   • Lights / horn / mirrors 
   • Windshield wipers and washers 
   • Seat belts 
   • Body evaluation / interior / exterior

                         source of information taken from doityourself.com