Car Maintenance: 10 Things Every Car Owner Should Know - The Short List

Summary

This video script outlines 10 essential car maintenance tasks every driver should master, from checking and topping up washer fluid and engine oil to replacing windshield wipers and tires. It covers tire pressure checks, jump-starting a dead battery, and inspecting the serpentine belt and cooling system. The script emphasizes the importance of these skills for vehicle reliability and driver safety, encouraging viewers to test their knowledge and share their experiences.

Takeaways

• 🧐 Maintain unobstructed visibility by ensuring your windshield is clear and refilling washer fluid as needed.
• 🛠️ Regularly check and replace windshield wipers to prevent smearing and ensure clear vision while driving.
• 🔍 Check engine oil levels and top off as necessary to avoid engine issues due to over or under-lubrication.
• 🚗 Know how to change a flat tire and rotate tires for prolonged tire life, especially in vehicles without tire pressure monitoring systems.
• 📏 Keep an eye on tire pressure and adhere to the manufacturer's recommended levels for optimal vehicle performance.
• 🔌 Learn how to jump-start a vehicle with a dead battery using the correct cable connections to avoid damage.
• 🌬️ Monitor the air filter for clogs and replace it regularly to ensure optimal engine performance and airflow.
• 🔄 Inspect the serpentine belt for signs of wear and replace it if necessary to maintain accessory function.
• 🔍 Examine the cooling system for signs of failure and flush it out if the antifreeze appears discolored or rusty.
• 🛑 Top off the engine's crankcase with the correct viscosity oil to maintain proper engine lubrication.
• ⚠️ Always follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle to avoid reliability issues.

Q & A

Why is unobstructed visibility critical to safe driving?

Unobstructed visibility is critical to safe driving because it helps ensure that the vehicle's windshield is clear of precipitation and road grime, which can obstruct the driver's view and lead to accidents.

What is the purpose of washer fluid in a vehicle?

Washer fluid is used to clean the vehicle's windshield, ensuring clear visibility by removing dirt, grime, and other obstructions.

How often should you check and refill the washer fluid reservoir?

The frequency of checking and refilling the washer fluid reservoir depends on usage, but it should be done regularly to ensure there is always enough fluid for the windshield wipers to function properly.

What is the process of replacing windshield wipers?

To replace windshield wipers, you need to release the old blade by pressing a small button or sliding it off a hook on the wiper arm, then clip the new blade into place.

Why is checking engine oil important?

Checking engine oil is important because it ensures the engine has the necessary lubrication to prevent friction and wear, which can lead to engine damage.

How do you check the engine oil level using a dipstick?

To check the engine oil level, pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again to read the oil level between the low and full marks.

What should you do if the engine oil level is below the low mark?

If the engine oil level is below the low mark, you should top off the crankcase with the correct viscosity oil, being careful not to overfill.

Why is checking tire pressure important for vehicle safety?

Checking tire pressure is important for vehicle safety because it ensures the tires are properly inflated, which can prevent blowouts and improve handling and fuel efficiency.

How can you check tire pressure without a gauge?

Without a gauge, you cannot accurately check tire pressure. It is essential to use a tire pressure gauge to ensure the correct pressure is maintained.

What is the proper way to change a flat tire?

To change a flat tire, you need to jack the vehicle up, remove the flat tire, and install the spare, ensuring to follow the correct procedure for your vehicle, such as loosening the lug nuts before jacking the car up.

Why is it necessary to jump-start a vehicle with a dead battery?

Jump-starting a vehicle with a dead battery is necessary to provide the electrical power needed to start the engine when the battery is unable to do so on its own.

What are the risks of mixing up the jumper cables when jump-starting a vehicle?

Mixing up the jumper cables can cause severe damage to the electrical system or even result in an explosion due to the high current flow if the positive and negative terminals are connected incorrectly.

How often should you replace your vehicle's air filter?

The frequency of replacing the air filter depends on the vehicle and driving conditions, but it should be checked regularly, especially if you notice a decrease in engine performance or fuel efficiency.

What are the signs that indicate a serpentine belt needs replacement?

Signs that a serpentine belt needs replacement include heavy abrasion, cracking, lengthwise tearing, or other obvious signs of damage.

Why is maintaining the engine's cooling system important?

Maintaining the engine's cooling system is important to prevent overheating, which can cause engine damage, and to ensure the system functions properly in both hot and cold temperatures.

What should you do if the cooling system's hoses are damaged?

If the cooling system's hoses are damaged, they should be replaced immediately to prevent coolant leaks and potential engine overheating.

How can you tell if your cooling system needs a flush?

You can tell if your cooling system needs a flush if the antifreeze appears discolored or rusty, indicating that it is contaminated and no longer effective.

Outlines

00:00

🚗 Basic Vehicle Maintenance Essentials

This paragraph outlines 10 fundamental car maintenance tasks that every driver should be able to perform. It emphasizes the importance of unobstructed visibility for safe driving and the simplicity of refilling washer fluid and replacing windshield wipers. The script also covers checking and topping off engine oil, noting the necessity of keeping the oil level between the low and full marks to avoid aeration and other issues. Additionally, it touches on the importance of tire maintenance, including checking tire pressure and changing a flat tire, as well as tire rotation for prolonged tire life. The paragraph concludes by highlighting the ability to perform these tasks as a means to earn 'do-it-yourself bonus points'.

05:00

🔋 Jumpstarting, Air Filters, and Cooling System Checks

The second paragraph focuses on jumpstarting a vehicle with a dead battery, detailing the correct use of jumper cables and the importance of not mixing up the leads. It also discusses the necessity of maintaining a clean air filter for optimal engine performance and how to replace it in many modern vehicles. The paragraph further explains the importance of inspecting the serpentine belt for signs of wear and the process of replacing it, despite the challenge it may present. Lastly, it advises on checking the engine's cooling system, including hoses and coolant levels, and the benefits of flushing the system if the antifreeze appears discolored or rusty. The paragraph ends with a reminder to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance and a cautionary note against purchasing the 10 least reliable vehicles as per a consumer report.

Keywords

💡Visibility

Visibility refers to the clear view a driver has through their windshield, which is crucial for safe driving. In the video, it is mentioned that unobstructed visibility helps ensure the vehicle's windshield is clear of precipitation and road grime, achieved by using washer fluid. The script emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear visibility for safety.

💡Washer Fluid

Washer fluid is a liquid used in vehicles to clean the windshield and improve visibility. The script describes the process of refilling the washer fluid reservoir, usually identified by a blue cap, as a simple task that every driver should be able to perform to maintain clear vision while driving.

💡Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are the blades that clear rain and other debris from the windshield. The video script explains that they can be easily replaced by detaching the old wiper and clipping a new one into place, which is an essential maintenance task for clear visibility.

💡Engine Oil

Engine oil is a lubricant that reduces friction and heat in the engine, and it is vital for the engine's operation. The script provides a step-by-step guide on how to check the oil level using a dipstick and emphasizes the importance of maintaining the correct oil level to avoid engine damage.

💡Oil Dipstick

An oil dipstick is a tool used to check the level of oil in an engine. The video explains that it should be checked when the vehicle is on a level surface and after the oil has settled to ensure an accurate reading, which is essential for preventing overfilling or underfilling the engine with oil.

💡Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is the air pressure inside the tires, which affects the vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and tire lifespan. The script instructs viewers on how to check tire pressure using a gauge and to maintain the pressure at the manufacturer's recommended level for optimal performance.

💡Flat Tire

A flat tire occurs when a tire loses air pressure, usually due to a puncture. The video script describes the process of changing a flat tire as an important skill for drivers, especially in situations where help is not immediately available.

💡Jump Start

Jump starting is the process of using another vehicle's battery to start a car with a dead battery. The script provides instructions on how to safely jump start a vehicle, emphasizing the importance of connecting the positive and negative terminals correctly to avoid damage.

💡Air Filter

An air filter is a component that cleans the air entering the engine, ensuring optimal combustion. The video explains that a clogged air filter can reduce engine performance and that it is usually easy and inexpensive to replace, which is an important part of regular vehicle maintenance.

💡Serpentine Belt

The serpentine belt is a single continuous belt that drives multiple accessories in the engine, such as the alternator and power steering pump. The script advises drivers to inspect the belt for signs of wear and replace it if necessary, which is a critical task for maintaining engine function.

💡Cooling System

The cooling system is responsible for regulating the engine's temperature to prevent overheating. The video script highlights the importance of inspecting hoses for damage and ensuring there is sufficient coolant in the reservoir, as well as the possibility of flushing the system for optimal performance.

Highlights

10 basic vehicle maintenance tasks every driver should know.

Unobstructed visibility is critical for safe driving; washer fluid refilling is a simple task.

Windshield wipers can be easily replaced by clipping them into place.

Checking engine oil is straightforward, ensuring it's between the low and full marks.

Overfilling engine oil can lead to aeration and other issues.

Topping off engine oil involves locating the filler cap and using the correct viscosity.

Changing oil and filter is a do-it-yourself task that earns bonus points.

Checking tire pressure is essential and involves using a gauge and maintaining the factory recommended pressure.

Changing a flat tire is an important skill, even with the decline of temporary spares.

Tire rotation prolongs tire life and may require reprogramming the tire pressure monitoring system.

Jump-starting a vehicle requires a set of cables and correct connection of positive and negative terminals.

Inspecting and replacing the air filter is crucial for engine performance.

Cabin air filters clean the air entering the HVAC system and may require different replacement techniques.

Inspecting the serpentine belt for signs of damage is a simple task that can prevent breakdowns.

Replacing the serpentine belt can be challenging but is a rewarding do-it-yourself task.

The engine's cooling system should be checked for hoses in poor condition and coolant levels.

Flushing the cooling system can be done by oneself for additional bonus points.

Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance items is essential for vehicle reliability.

Avoid the 10 least reliable vehicles highlighted in a previous episode for dependable transportation.

Transcripts

coming your way next 10 basic things

every driver should be able to do to his

or her vehicle make way for another

shortlist

how much do you know about the inner

workings of your car or truck i mean

it's all right if you're not an

automotive engineer of course if you are

this video probably isn't for you

because here are 10 basic things every

motorist should be able to do

unobstructed visibility is critical to

safe driving helping ensure your

vehicle's windshield is clear of

precipitation and road grime is washer

fluid

unfortunately it couldn't be simpler to

keep the reservoir filled with plenty of

this refreshing looking but poisonous

liquid

just pop the hood and look for a cap

like this they're usually blue for easy

spotting then just pop it off and top

her up

but fluid is only half the equation

occasionally you're gonna need a fresh

set of windshield wipers which is of

course point number nine on this list

luckily it's also an easy task to swap

them as they essentially clip into place

to release a blade there's often a small

button that you push other times they

slide into a hook on the end of the arm

in either case the blade shouldn't be

overly difficult to swap out so give it

a try next time there's smearing rather

than wiping

that sounds like a toilet joke

moving on another mission-critical

vehicle component is engine oil and it's

super easy to check provided you don't

own an electric car since they lack

crankcases full of lubricant or a modern

bmw which of course don't have dipsticks

keeping an eye on the oil is a snap just

make sure the vehicle's sitting on a

relatively level surface and if you just

parked it wait a few minutes as the oil

may not have completely drained back

into the pan which could result in a

false reading with all that out of the

way simply pull the dipstick out wipe it

off with a rag or piece of paper towel

and stick it back into the tube from

whence it came

then pull her out again and read the

level if the oil shows between the low

and full marks you're good to go

now this is a case where more is not

better having an overabundance of oil in

an engine can be just as bad as not

enough in fact it can lead to aeration

and many other issues so basically keep

it between the marks and you should be

all set

but if the engine is low on lube every

driver should also be able to top off

the crankcase just locate the filler cap

which should look something like this

then pour a bit of oil down in there

make sure it's the correct viscosity

no no no not that

wait a minute or so and check the

dipstick again to avoid overfilling add

small amounts until the correct level is

achieved car engines typically take

between four and five quarts though this

does vary a ram 3500 hd truck with the

common straight six diesel requires

three gallons of dinosaur juice just

make sure to check the owner's manual

for specific details

but taking this a step further you could

also change the oil and filter which

usually isn't that difficult if you can

do this sir or madam you have just

earned major do-it-yourself bonus points

next let's talk about the only part of

your vehicle that should ever touch the

road yes that would be the tires point

number six all motorists should be able

to check their tire pressure

again this is a very simple task just

remove the valve stem cap and stick a

gauge firmly over the end make sure it

seats well so no air leaks out around

the edges something that could lead to

an inaccurate measurement now unless

there are special circumstances of

course it's best to maintain the factory

recommended pressure which is displayed

on a placard usually near the driver's

side door jamb inflate or deflate as

required

and while we're in this area every

driver should be able to change a flat

tire though unfortunately temporary

spares have become less and less common

replaced by space and weight saving

emergency inflation kits still the

ability to jack a vehicle up remove an

offending flat and install a spare tire

is an important skill to have especially

if you get a flat where cell phone

service is not available and remember

that's lefty

tighty right righty lucy

just strip the threads and back off half

a turn you'll be fine

also add major bonus points if you're

able to rotate those tires a process

that's a bit more time consuming though

the payoff of course is prolonged tire

life if your ride is newer you'll

probably also have to reprogram the tire

pressure monitoring system so it

accurately shows where each tire is

located

now point number four on this list of

things every motorist should be able to

do is jump start a vehicle that has a

dead battery of course this requires a

set of cables a car or truck that's

fully charged and a little bit of

know-how when attempting this the most

important thing is making sure you do

not mix up the leads a positive terminal

must connect to a positive terminal

negative to negative if you switch them

around very bad things will happen a

helpful hint to prevent this is that the

color red is associated with positive

and black with negative also in modern

vehicles the negative cable doesn't

necessarily have to connect directly to

the battery as the negative side is

grounded to the engine and body

structure so an engine bracket or metal

part of the body will work just as well

as a terminal but if you're in doubt go

for the battery

ah fresh air is a wonderful thing it's

as necessary to life as it is to your

engine you see without a free-flowing

supply of oxygen internal combustion

simply cannot take place and that's why

it's important to keep tabs on your

vehicle's air filter if it's clogged

with dirt and debris it won't flow as

much as it should reducing your engine's

output but the good news is they're

usually cheap and relatively easy to

replace now this will vary from one

vehicle to another but in many modern

cars and trucks the air filter is found

underneath a large rectangular housing

with the lid held in place by screws or

clips in either case just pop it off to

gain access to the filter itself the new

element should drop right in but make

sure to orient it in the same way as the

old one the pleats need to face the

incoming air to capture as much dirt as

possible many vehicles are also equipped

with cabin air filters and they clean

the air before it enters the hvac system

depending on make and model these can be

easier or much harder to replace than an

engine air filter but give yourself even

more bonus points if you're capable of

this maintenance item

next up point number two every driver

should be able to inspect their car or

truck serpentine belt provided the part

in question isn't concealed by layer

after layer of plastic shrouds it should

be a snap to give a quick once over if

the belt shows heavy abrasion cracking

across the grooves lengthwise tearing or

other obvious signs of damage you'll

want to replace it sooner than later

and award yourself some super bonus

points if you can tackle this job on

your own in theory the process is simple

but it often feels like you need two

extra sets of hands to get the belt

position exactly where it needs to be

with the tension released and remember

proper routing is critical for all

accessories to function

finally every driver out there should be

able to give their engine's cooling

system a good once over critically

important yet often ignored like that

exercise equipment you bought around the

holidays in 2007 cooling systems have to

cope with scorching summer heat and

arctic cold keep an eye out for swelled

chafed cracked or weeping hoses they are

fixed into burst which will leave you

stranded also make sure there's enough

coolant in the overflow reservoir add

more as required and of course if it

looks like the antifreeze is discolored

or rusty that means the cooling system

is long overdue to be flushed out

something you can do yourself if you

fancy earning even more bonus points

and there you have it 10 simple vehicle

maintenance items every driver should be

able to tackle how many of these things

can you do and how many bonus points did

you earn well write your responses here

on the screen and we'll make sure to

read every single one of them

wow

anyway thank you for watching this not

so short list and as always make sure to

follow the manufacturer's recommended

maintenance items for your particular

vehicle

oh and just a very quick housekeeping

note if you're looking for a dependable

vehicle do not buy any of the 10

highlighted in the last episode of the

shortlist that we published it's

actually all about the 10 least reliable

vehicles according to our friends over

at consumer report so if you don't want

to spend all the rest of your free time

in a dealership service department or on

the side of the road steer clear of all

those vehicles