Used car maintenance checklist cracked#
Used car maintenance checklist manual#
Used car maintenance checklist full#

This will vary based on where you drive, where you park your car at home (in a garage or on the street). If your car isn’t “lubed for life” (check owner’s manual), the chassis, steering, and suspension systems may need to be lubed. Check every 6 months or 6,000 milesĪttend to the following items every six months or every 6,000 miles: Chassis Lubrication

Used car maintenance checklist manual#

Consult your owner’s manual beforehand, as there are certain types of wheels and tires that should not be rotated. Tire rotation methods vary based on the type and size of tires you have, whether your car is front, rear, all, or four-wheel drive, and other factors. There are a number of ways to rotate your tires. Oil change intervals can vary widely with age of vehicle and driving habits consult the manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation. Check every 5,000 milesĪttend to the following items every 5,000 miles: Engine oil and filterĬheck both the oil and filter and be sure to use oil of the grade and weight specified in the owner’s manual. Doing the same trick with a quarter will tell you whether you’ve got 4/32” left. Check tread depth with a penny: If the top of Lincoln’s head is covered, you still have 2/23” of depth remaining. If you drive in wet conditions, a better limit is 4/32”. Tire treadsĪ tire is worn out if its tread depth is 2/32” or less. Maintain recommended tire pressure, and replace damaged tires. Keep an eye out for uneven wear patterns, and generally look out for damage to treads and sidewalls.

Tire pressure and conditionĬheck the pressure of all tires, including the spare. Inspect for leaks and damage, especially if the exhaust is making a strange noise. Inspect system for leaks if topping off becomes frequent. Power steering fluidĬheck level when car is warmed up and top off if necessary.

Used car maintenance checklist cracked#

Hoses that are leaking, cracked or brittle need to be replaced. If you’ve been running on the same filter for a year, replace it even if it is not noticeably dirty.

Used car maintenance checklist full#

The filter should be white or off-white if it’s dirty or full of debris, get a new one. If they’re frayed or worn, it’s time to replace. BeltsĬheck that V-belts and serpentine belts are tight and in good condition. Battery and cablesĬheck the battery is mounted securely and corrosion-free also make sure that cables are fastened tightly. Leave the car in park with engine running check the fluid and add the appropriate type (consult owner’s manual) if it’s low. Check every 3 months or 3,000 milesĪttend to the following items every three months or every 3,000 miles: Automatic transmission fluid Never fill the wiper fluid reservoir with plain water. Follow instructions on the wiper fluid bottle like coolant, it may need to be diluted. Windshield wiper fluidĬheck the level and top off if needed. If it’s concentrated, mix it 50/50 with distilled water before adding. When adding coolant, read the bottle carefully – if it’s “premixed” coolant, pour it right in. Coolant/antifreezeĬheck the level at the reservoir, and never open a hot radiator cap. The difference between the “low” and “full” markings on the dipstick is usually one quart. Keep a bottle of oil (check owner’s manual for grade and weight) in your car’s trunk for topping off. It doesn’t hurt to check the oil level every time you fill up. Check monthlyĪttend to the following items below on a monthly basis: Engine oil Be proactive – wiper blades are relatively inexpensive and driving with reduced visibility endangers everyone. Replace wiper blades that aren’t doing their job due to damage or wear. Driving with one headlight is unsafe and can get you a ticket. If that’s not the problem, replace the light immediately.

If a light goes out, check for a blown fuse. If this light comes on, check the tire pressure immediately, top off the air in the tire(s) as needed, and investigate possible leaks. Keep in mind, service indicators vary by vehicle, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for specific details and instructions. If it’s flashing, you may need to get to a service shop immediately. If this light is constant, get the car checked as soon as you can. The check engine light indicates your electronic control system has run into a problem it can’t fix. Attend to as soon as possible if your car is experiencing the following: Check engine light