Contents: Checking the engine oil level ↡ Checking the brake fluid level ↡ Checking brake light bulbs ↡ Checking lighting devices ↡ Checking tire pressure ↡ Checking the coolant level ↡ Checking the oil level in an…↡
Most maintenance work can be done independently. However, it is more advisable to use the services of service stations that have the appropriate equipment and experience, measuring devices and tools. Of particular importance are regular checks and monitoring of the operation of individual units and assemblies of the car after a certain mileage of the car or after a certain time, which are described below.
Checking the engine oil level
Check the engine oil level after 600 km. Pull out the oil level indicator and wipe its surface with a clean rag. Insert the oil level indicator into the fitting until it stops and pull it out again. When the car is in a horizontal position, the oil level should be between the upper and lower marks on the oil level indicator. If the oil level is at the lower mark on the indicator, you need to add oil. The volume of oil between the upper and lower marks on the indicator is about 2 liters, which allows you to determine the required amount of oil for topping up. It is unacceptable to pour oil above the upper mark on the oil level indicator.
Checking the brake fluid level
The brake fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment on the left side above the master brake cylinder. The reservoir is made of transparent material and the fluid level is clearly visible. The fluid level should be between the "min" and "max" marks and should be topped up if necessary.
Checking brake light bulbs
You can check the brake lights with an assistant or alone. When working, the driver presses the brake pedal, and the assistant checks the brake light bulbs. If the driver is alone, you need to park the car with its back to the garage door and, pressing the brake pedal, check the lamps by the display of red light. If one lamp does not light, you need to replace it, if both lamps do not light, check the brake light switch.
Checking lighting devices
All lighting fixtures (including sound signal and hazard warning lights) are checked by switching them on in sequence. It is more convenient to check the lamps on the rear side of the car at night in front of the garage door.
Checking tire pressure
Check the tire pressure at a gas station using the tire pressure tables for different car models available there. Under normal load, the front tire pressure is 2.1 atm, and the rear tire pressure is 2.3 atm.
Checking the coolant level
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be near the mark on the expansion tank. If necessary, add antifreeze to the cooling system. When the engine is hot, loosen the expansion tank cap and wait for the pressure in the cooling system to drop. After that, the cap can be removed.
Checking the oil level in an automatic transmission
To ensure reliable operation of the automatic transmission, it is necessary to regularly check the oil level in the transmission. The check is performed in the following sequence:
- Pull up the parking brake. Place the automatic transmission control lever in the "P" position.
- Start the engine and let it idle for 1...2 minutes.
- Loosen the oil level indicator and unscrew it.
- At operating temperature, the oil level should be between the "min" and "max" marks. In a cold gearbox, the oil level should be 10 mm above the "min" mark.
- If necessary, add oil through the oil level indicator hole using a funnel. It is not allowed to pour oil above the mark. Only Dexron-A oil should be poured into the box. Other oils can be used only after consultation with experts.