10 Basic Maintenance Skills for New Drivers

1. Oil - Learn where the dipstick is and how to check the oil, should be done with the engine off and car sitting on level ground.

2. Air in tires - knowing proper air pressure and checking tires regularly will help tire longevity and is needed to help gas mileage. Don't forget to check the spare.

3. Air breather-if the engine can't breathe good it can't run good it also helps to have clean air breather for improved gas mileage. Some of the newer vehicles it is harder to change breather filters and you might not do it yourself but you need to know where its at.

4. Transmission fluid - should be checked with the engine running and you should be aware of moving parts as fans and such. Some of these as an electric fan does not run all the time and turns off and on automatically.

5. Anti-freeze- The best time to check antifreeze /coolant is when the car has not been run and the engine is cool. Never open a radiator cap if you are not experienced at doing so as fluid can burn you fast.

6. Windshield wiper fluids - simple to check and has a marked fill level on tank, filled with engine off.

7. Wiper blades - look for torn blades most are easy to replace if you follow instructions.

8. Learn how to change a flat - If you can change a tire and want to learn how that is good but knowing where the jack is and the spare and how to change the tire is helpful if you get a good Samaritan to help or if you have to call someone.

9. Brake fluid - simple look see item, some have clear bowls and all you have to do is check level to mark.

10. Power steering fluid- learning where it is and how to check this is a fairly easy task on most vehicles.

For more ways to save and create energy visit Terral's blog at:
http://www.energygap.blogspot.com


By Terral Kirkbride