5 DIY Maintenance Checks Every Everett Driver Can Do (And When to Call a Pro)
Owning a vehicle is a significant responsibility, and keeping it in top condition is essential for safety and performance. As a driver in Everett, it’s important to know how to maintain your vehicle, especially in the unpredictable weather conditions that often hit the Pacific Northwest. While some auto repairs require the expertise of a trained mechanic, there are plenty of DIY vehicle maintenance tasks that you can easily handle. By taking the time to perform these routine checks, you can prevent costly repairs, improve your car’s longevity, and enjoy a smoother driving experience. In this blog, we’ll explore five essential DIY maintenance checks every Everett driver should know, along with guidance on when it’s time to call a mechanic.
Checking the Engine Oil
One of the most crucial aspects of vehicle maintenance is keeping an eye on the engine oil. Your engine depends on oil to lubricate its moving parts, reduce friction, and prevent overheating. Over time, the oil degrades and becomes less effective. Regularly checking and changing your engine oil is essential for the health of your car.
To check your engine oil, you’ll need to locate the dipstick, which is usually marked with a brightly colored handle under the hood. Make sure your car is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off and cooled down. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, then dip it back into the tube and pull it out to check the oil level. If the oil is low, you may need to top it off or schedule an oil change. Additionally, if the oil appears dirty or gritty, it’s time to change it.
When to Call a Mechanic: If the oil level is frequently low, or if your engine starts to make unusual noises, this could indicate a more serious problem, such as a leak or engine wear. In such cases, it’s important to call a professional mechanic for a more thorough inspection and repair. Everett auto repair shops can help diagnose and fix underlying issues before they cause major damage.
Inspecting the Tires
Your tires are the only contact between your vehicle and the road, making them critical for both safety and performance. Regular tire inspections are an easy and effective way to maintain your car’s safety and improve fuel efficiency. You don’t need any special tools to check your tires, just a simple visual inspection and the right technique to measure tire pressure.
Start by checking the tread depth. You can do this by using a penny or a tire depth gauge. Place the penny in several areas of the tread with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace the tires. Uneven wear patterns, such as excessive wear on one side, could indicate alignment or suspension issues.
Next, use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure of each tire. Most vehicles have a recommended tire pressure listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it’s within the recommended range. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can decrease your vehicle’s performance, lead to premature tire wear, and even pose a safety hazard.
When to Call a Mechanic: If you notice unusual tire wear patterns, vibrations, or if your tire pressure consistently drops even after inflating, it’s best to call a mechanic. These issues can indicate problems with the alignment, suspension, or a slow leak. A mechanic can diagnose the cause of the problem and recommend the right solution.
Testing the Battery
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a vehicle to break down, but testing and maintaining your car battery can often prevent such an issue. Batteries typically last between three and five years, but extreme weather conditions in Everett, especially the damp, chilly winters, can shorten their lifespan. Luckily, testing your battery’s condition is a simple task that you can do with minimal tools.
Start by inspecting the battery for any obvious signs of damage, such as leaks, corrosion around the terminals, or cracked casing. You can clean off any corrosion with a mixture of baking soda and water and a small brush, like an old toothbrush. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when doing this, as battery acid can be harmful.
Next, you can use a multimeter to measure the voltage of your battery. A fully charged car battery should measure around 12.6 volts when the engine is off. If the voltage is lower than this, or if your battery is over three years old and showing signs of weakness, you may need to replace it.
When to Call a Mechanic: If your battery is showing signs of trouble despite cleaning and testing, or if your car frequently has difficulty starting, it’s time to call a mechanic. A professional can check the alternator and the charging system to make sure there are no underlying issues causing the battery to fail prematurely. If needed, they can replace the battery or offer recommendations for a suitable replacement.
Replacing Air Filters
Your car’s air filter plays a vital role in maintaining engine performance by ensuring that clean air flows into the engine. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dirt, debris, and other particles, which can affect fuel efficiency, engine performance, and emissions. Fortunately, replacing the air filter is an easy DIY task that requires only basic tools.
Start by locating your air filter, which is typically found inside the air filter box near the engine. You can refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location. Once you’ve found the air filter, open the box and carefully remove the old filter. Check it for dirt, debris, and any visible damage. If the filter is dirty, it’s time to replace it. Installing a new filter is simple—just remove the old one, place the new one into the air filter box, and close the lid.
When to Call a Mechanic: If you’ve replaced your air filter and still notice poor engine performance or unusual sounds, it could be a sign of other issues, such as a problem with the air intake system or the mass airflow sensor. If this happens, it’s best to consult a mechanic who can inspect the system and determine if further repairs are needed.
Checking Fluid Levels
Maintaining proper fluid levels is essential to keep your car running smoothly. In addition to oil, there are several other fluids that need to be checked regularly, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Each of these fluids plays a critical role in keeping your vehicle’s systems functioning properly, and neglecting fluid maintenance can lead to expensive repairs.
To check the fluid levels, start with the coolant reservoir. Make sure your engine is cool before you open the radiator cap or coolant reservoir to avoid burns or injury. The coolant should be between the “low” and “high” markings. If it’s low, add a mixture of coolant and water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Next, check the brake fluid, which should be transparent and clean. If it appears dark or dirty, it may need to be flushed and replaced. Similarly, check the power steering fluid and transmission fluid, ensuring that the levels are within the recommended range. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct procedures for checking each fluid type.
When to Call a Mechanic: If you notice that your fluid levels are constantly low, or if you experience issues like the brakes feeling spongy, unusual steering behavior, or transmission problems, it’s time to call a mechanic. Low fluid levels or contaminated fluids can indicate leaks or damage within the system, which requires professional attention.
Conclusion
Maintaining your vehicle in Everett doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By regularly performing these five DIY vehicle maintenance checks, you can keep your car in excellent condition and avoid costly repairs. However, it’s also important to recognize when professional help is needed. If you notice any issues that go beyond routine maintenance, don’t hesitate to call a mechanic. Regular visits to an auto repair shop will ensure that your vehicle remains safe and reliable for years to come.
Need an Auto Repair Shop in Everett, WA?
Welcome to Auto Truck Service Inc. Auto Truck Service Inc. has been serving our local community of Everett since 1978. Locally owned and family operated, we provide a personal customer service experience to ensure that all your needs are met. With over 50 years of experience, we are not here to give anyone the runaround; we get the job done right the first time. Our knowledgeable staff will ensure that we get to the bottom of your issue and get you back out on the road in no time. Our services include general auto repair, diesel services, marine engine repair, and custom machine shop services. We also provide repair services for fleet vehicles, motor homes, and high-performance vehicles. Stop in or call us today!
Categorised in: Tips, Vehicle Maintenance