Automotive maintenance is one of those mundane tasks that most of us are prone to put off, sometimes longer than we like to admit.  However, your vehicle can suffer the consequences if you continually procrastinate.  Isn’t it time you get yourself in gear and find a method of remembering to perform the most basic vehicle care on a monthly basis?

 

For starters, we’re going to tackle vehicle fluids.  These are all fluids that are essential to keeping your car running.  To keep it simple, let’s come up with an acronym to make it easy to remember.  How about TPBEC or The Power Behind Every Car?  Let’s break that down as follows:

 

Transmission Fluid – This fluid is vitally important as it keeps your transmission running smoothly.  If your transmission doesn’t work, your car won’t move.  So it’s not something you want to skimp on and not check.  Locate your transmission fluid reservoir and check the fluid while the engine is running.  Make sure the fluid is up to the mark and isn’t brown or smells burned.  If it’s low, brown or smells burned, make an appointment with Cardinale Mazda’s Service department to have the transmission fluid replaced.

 

Power Steering Fluid – This fluid is necessary to keep your power steering system lubricated so that your steering wheel turns easily.  After you find the reservoir holding the power steering fluid, check to be sure it isn’t low.  If it is, take your vehicle to Cardinale Mazda Service department so they can inspect it for a possible leak or add more power steering fluid.

 

Brake Fluid – This fluid helps keep your brakes in good working order.  Check the level in the reservoir and make sure its color is gold.  If it’s not a golden hue or if it appears to be low, take your vehicle to your Service department to have the brake fluid replaced.

 

Engine Oil – This is probably the most important fluid and is critical to lubricating the engine parts to keep them moving.  Whereas most of the other fluids listed here will seldom require replacing, oil requires regular oil filter changes and adding oil as necessary.  Locate the dipstick in your oil reservoir and pull it out, wipe it off with a shop towel then reinsert it and remove again.  Check the level of oil registering on the dipstick.  Add more if required, but be careful not to overfill.  Check your owner’s manual to determine how frequently the oil needs changing.

 

Coolant – This fluid prevents your car from overheating.  To check your coolant, remove the radiator cap when the car is not running.  Check to see that the coolant lines up with its level mark.  If low, add more of the same brand of coolant.

 

If you take the time to regularly pop the hood and check your vehicle’s fluids, you can help prevent costly breakdowns and prolong the life of your car.  Our Service department at CardinaleWay Mazda Salinas can assist you with regular vehicle maintenance, including oil filter changes. Our location at Salinas Auto Mall makes it convenient for you to stop by for all your service needs.  While you’re here, feel free to browse our large selection of new Mazda models and #CertifiedPreowned vehicles.  At CardinaleWay Mazda Salinas, we pride ourselves on making customer satisfaction our #1 goal.  Visit our website at www.cardinalemazda.com for all our latest specials.

 

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Cardinale Mazda

500 Auto Center Circle

Salinas, California 93907

Phone: 877.989.9252

Website: www.cardinalemazda.com