Car Basics Everyone Should Know

Posted July 31, 2015

If you drive a vehicle, it is important to understand the basics of how to take care of it.

First of all, know how to pop the hood of your car. It seems like a very basic idea, but if you don’t know where the hood release lever is, no one will be able to help fix your vehicle.

It’s a good idea to know how to top up all of your fluids, like the windshield washer fluid. Most vehicles have warning lights that will let you know when your fluids are low. If you check under the hood, you will find symbols indicating which containers hold each fluid. When filling your fluids, make sure that the levels are above the minimum fill line but below the maximum fill line. Also make sure that you are using the correct fluid for your vehicle. For example, you should ensure you are using all-weather windshield in the winter; some windshield washer fluid is only made for the summer weather and will freeze once temperatures drop below zero, which could end up in expensive repairs.

Checking your oil is also something that people forget to do; letting the oil get too low or too dirty can cause irreparable damage to your engine. To check your oil pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a lint free rag or paper towel. Then you should stick it back in the oil and pull it back out. If the oil is covering the dipstick in between the “Add” and “Fill” line, then your oil is good. If it is below the “Add” line, you should add more. You should also inspect the colour of the oil. If the oil looks to have dirty specks in it, then you should take your vehicle in to your local Integra Tire for an oil change.

Examining the exterior of your car is something else everyone should know.

You should ensure that your headlights, taillights, and turning lights are all working correctly. You should also inspect your tires regularly to ensure that they are free of cracks, budges, and impaled objects.

Now that you know some of the basics on how to take care of your vehicle, you can feel more comfortable on the road.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.