Now I know what you’re thinking – your vehicles’ owner manual is a pretty dry, boring read. However, it really can make a difference to the way your vehicle runs and how much life you’ll get from your vehicle if you just read through your manual and understand what your vehicle needs and when it needs to be done. The best way to keep your vehicle running clean and efficiently is to follow the recommended information as noted in your booklet. Not just that you’ll get longer life from your vehicle, but even worse you could be voiding your warranty by not performing your regular maintenance. Today’s sophisticated engines and on-board computer systems are best understood by trained professionals. This doesn’t mean, though, that you’re off the hook for maintenance checks between servicing guidelines. Perform a monthly check-up to head off any problems that might end up costing big money down the road. Some things that should be on your list to check are as follows:

1 - Measure tire pressure when the tires are cold and look for uneven wear and tear or embedded objects.
2 - Check around and under your vehicle for any signs of fluid leakage. Oil is black; coolant is a bright greenish-yellow, automatic transmission fluid is pink and power steering and brake fluids are clear with a slight brownish tinge. All of these fluids are oily to the touch.
3 - Check fluid levels – not just the oil, but also the coolant, transmission fluid and the power steering fluid.
4 - Take a peek under your hood. There may be a sign of cracked or split wires, cracked radiator hoses or loose clamps and corrosion around your battery terminals.
5 - Check your brakes on a flat and vehicle-free stretch of road. Rest your hands lights on the steering wheel and apply the brakes gradually. If your vehicle swerves to one side or the other, you may need an adjustment or brake linings. Have your mechanic do a full test to determine exactly what needs to be done to correct the matter.

These are just a few ways in which you can become a more involved vehicle owner. If you practice good monthly check-ups and follow your vehicle maintenances guidelines, you should be able to enjoy your vehicle for years to come.

Karen J. Williams is a Sales and Leasing Consultant with Okanagan Chrysler Jeep Dodge. You can reach her at (250) 861-1040 or email at karenw@okanagandodge.com

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