Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)Written by Kevin Schappell
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This information can be valuable to home mechanic when trying to troubleshoot problems with his or her car. Most times manufacturer gives detailed instructions on how to fix problem with part numbers included. You can choose to fix it yourself or take it to your mechanic and alert him to TSB. Recall Notices: Automobile manufacturers issue Official Safety Recall Notices to inform vehicle owners of car defects that have come to manufacturer's attention. Recalls also suggest improvements that can be made to improve safety of a particular vehicle. Oftentimes your car dealer can perform this recall work for free. Knowing what recall notices have been issued on your vehicle helps you keep your vehicle in best and safest working order. The best way to keep your family safe is to check for recalls issued for your vehicle every 1 - 3 months. Not all recalls are serious enough to warrant manufacturer to contact owners, so it's up to you to check for yourself.
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has createdhttp://www.mycarwizard.com
| | Checking FluidsWritten by Kevin Schappell
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·Engine coolant - -- CAUTION -- Never open your radiator cap when engine is hot ! The pressure in system can send hot coolant splashing out on to you. Most cars have an overflow bottle, which will have level markings. Keep coolant between these markings. If you have to open radiator, make sure engine is cold. ·Power steering fluid - Your car uses oil to assist in steering car. The fluid is usually checked at pump, but can be away from pump in a separate reservoir. Like transmission, this fluid should also be checked when up to operating temperature. Most commonly level is measured by a small dipstick attached to cap of reservoir. ·Brake fluid - On most newer cars you can check brake fluid level without removing cap on master cylinder. There will be level markings on side of plastic reservoir. If you have to remove cover to check fluid level, be careful not to spill any fluid on surrounding paint. Brake fluid makes a nice paint remover :-) ·Windshield washer fluid - That's magic blue liquid that squirts out of your hood. Most reservoirs have level marked on side but some newer cars have them buried underneath everything so you can not see. Just fill to top, there is no harm in overfilling. If you need to add any fluids to bring levels up, a funnel is helpful to avoid spills. Keep track of how often you add oil, and transmission fluid. Frequent additions can point to leaks and engine wear.
Kevin Schappell maintains http://www.carbuyersclub.com where he gives advice on buying, selling, insurance, and financing. A mechanical engineer and car guy, Kevin has decided to spend his online time helping others learn about automobiles. To learn more about how your car works, Kevin has createdhttp://www.mycarwizard.com
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