Staying Home Tips, Part 3 – It’s Vehicle Maintenance Time!

If you caught Part 1 of our staying home tips for this COVID-19 pandemic, then you know the staff at Mobile Edge in Lehighton wants to help make sure your car or truck stays in good condition. In this article, we’ll offer a few additional suggestions to ensure that your vehicle is ready and raring to go once this is all over. Don’t fret; unlike our website team, we won’t have you trying to check the wheel alignment or planning an investigation of engine oil pH and its long-term effects on engine wear.

Check the Fluids

While you’re under the hood, top up the washer fluid. We might still get some cold weather, so use windshield washer antifreeze from the local gas station or auto parts store.

This dipstick shows that the oil level is within an acceptable range. However, the dark color of this oil indicates that it’s likely time for an oil change.

Let’s start by checking some of the fluids. Pop the hood, grab a paper towel, then pull out the dipstick. Wipe the oil off the end, reinsert it and remove it again. Have a look at the tip. There should be two small holes or a hatched gradation that shows where the engine oil level should be. If it’s low, add a half-quart and check again. Pro tip: Your car or truck should be on level ground.

Easy Mechanical Inspection

Next, let’s do a quick mechanical inspection. Grab the battery terminals and give them a gentle twist. If they turn, they need to be tightened. You won’t get a shock from touching your car battery. Have a look around the engine compartment.

If there are leaves or debris in the engine compartment, clear them out. Look up around the base of the windshield. This area is called the cowl. Removing leaves and pine needles from this area helps to ensure that the heater and air conditioner will work properly.

Once you have the hood closed, let’s check the wiper blades. Start the vehicle and use the windshield washer sprayers. Watch to see how fast the wipers clear the water. If it takes more than two passes to remove the water and streaks, your blades likely need cleaning or replacement. You can wipe the edge of the blade with a paper towel dampened with a gentle degreaser like dish soap or vinegar.

Vehicle Maintenance Is Easy

Finish off your quick tour around the car by cleaning out any trash or receipts from the center console or glove box. Make sure your license and insurance info are up to date. If you want to share some of your basic vehicle maintenance tips, join us on our Facebook Page. Stay safe, everyone!