TIPS TO HEALTHY & WEALTHY TRANSMISSIONS

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5 CARRY OUT PERIDOIC CHECKS UNDER THE HOOD YOURSELF.

Since most gas stations are self service these days you will need to look at certain fluid levels and obvious wear conditions on a regular basis. Your safety is of utmost importance as you perform these checks.

1. Check engine oil level and condition – With the engine shut off remove the dip stick. Wipe it off and reinsert it. Remove it again and look at the level. If it is more than one quart low you must add oil. If the oil is dark in color it may be time to have it changed along with the oil filter.

2. Check transmission fluid level and condition – With the parking brake engaged and the engine running with the transmission in neutral or park, remove the dip stick. Wipe it off and reinsert it. Remove it again and look at the level. If it is at all low, it needs to be brought to the full mark even if that means adding less than a quart of fluid.

*If the fluid is low or is dark brown or black or has a burnt smell have the transmission checked immediately by Tigard Transmissions for leaks or possible internal damage.

**Note: Some vehicles may not have a transmission dip stick. If not, the fluid level must be checked electronically. Tigard Transmissions Center will be happy to do that for you.

3. Check brake fluid – Many vehicles have a clear plastic reservoir with a full line on the outside. You may have to wipe it off in order to see the fluid level. If it is low have the brake system checked immediately for leaks. This can be a dangerous condition.

4. Check power steering fluid – With the engine off remove the cap on the power steering pump reservoir. It has a small dipstick attached to it. Wipe it off and reinsert it. Remove it again and check the level. If it is low add fluid to bring it back to the full mark even if it only takes a little bit. The reservoir only holds a small amount so there isn't much margin for error. A burnt smell or specs of metal in the fluid can indicate damage to the power steering pump, the steering box or rack and pinion unit.

5. Check coolant level – Most vehicles have an "overflow bottle" which is separate from the radiator. It is clear plastic and may need to be wiped off in order to see the level. The cap on top of it may or may not be under pressure. Never remove the cap when the engine is hot. Always let it cool first and cover the cap with a towel as you open it a little at a time to release any pressure in the cooling system without being squirted by coolant. Note: Coolant is highly toxic. Wear eye and hand protection.

6. Check the electrolyte level in the battery. With the ignition key off and wearing eye and hand protection – If it is a sealed battery there is usually an indicator that glows green on top if the level is okay. If the battery has removable caps remove them and look at the fluid level. If it is low add water to the full mark. Try not to overfill.

7. Check air pressure when the tires are cold. As a vehicle is driven, friction heats the air in the tires expanding them as much as ten pounds above their cold pressure reading. Under inflating can take one half to two thirds off the life of a tire.

8. Check windshield washer fluid – In cold climates be sure to use washer fluid that is rated to at least -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

9. Check fan belts for looseness, fraying, or missing teeth. With the engine off feel the belts to make sure they are tight and not damaged.

10. Check radiator and heater hoses – With the engine off squeeze the top and bottom radiator hoses to make sure they aren't soft or cracked. Look around the radiator and on top of the engine for signs of coolant leaking.

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