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Close the hood, find a good mechanic... Posted by Mike Lynch [Email]  (#81) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Mike Lynch) on Fri, 10 Feb 2006 18:11:18
In Reply to: What to look for under the hood? Non Mechanic Type, Saab-er, Fri, 10 Feb 2006 17:01:13 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Find a good mechanic, one you can trust who won't snow you, and ask him to show you under the hood what you should be looking for.
There are lots of things to visually inspect under the hood. Fluid levels, oil, water, windshield washer, trans fluid, but only the oil and water need regular checking, the windshield washer and trans fluid checks are scheduled maintenance items. You can also check for frayed belts and suspicious hoses as well as leaks, but the difference between a leak that needs attention and a seep that really isn't bothering anything is an experienced, subjective judgement call. Same with hoses and belts. Just because a belt has some mild craze cracking doesn't mean it needs replacement.
Besides under the hood the most important, most overlooked, area needing checking are the tires. Checking inflation and checking for abnormal wear should be part of your oil and water checks. Wiper blades are another thing you can look at but are part of a scheduled maintenance inspection.
I wouldn't be using any tools or wrenches on a vehicle that's depended on for daily transportation. 'Bout the only thing under the hood that can be taken apart to inspect is the air cleaner element, and even that could turn into a disaster without experience.
Find that trusted independent mechanic and take the car to him for routine oil changes as well as services and repairs and trust them to keep track of your car. Avoid "quick lube" style places. They are notorious for overselling of unneccessary stuff. A good independent doesn't have to oversell. Older cars need plenty of work all by themselves.
, Fri, 10 Feb 2006 18:11:18 <-- Viewing This Message
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