Faq

Materials Needed:

• Wrench or pliers (to open the drain plug)
• Bucket or drain pan
• Hose or water source
• Fresh coolant or distilled water
• Funnel

Steps to Change Radiator Water:

1. Turn Off the Engine:

   • Make sure the engine is cool before starting. Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot—it can cause serious burns.

2. Locate the Radiator Drain Plug:

   • Open the hood and find the radiator drain plug, usually at the bottom of the radiator.

3. Drain the Radiator:

   • Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the drain plug or petcock to let the old water drain out completely.

4. Flush the System:

   • Close the drain plug and fill the radiator with clean water. Start the engine and let it run for 5–10 minutes to circulate the water, then turn it off and let it cool down.
   • Drain the water again to flush out debris or old coolant.

5. Refill the Radiator:

   • Close the drain plug securely. Use a funnel to fill the radiator with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water (or follow your car’s manual for the correct ratio).

6. Bleed the System:

   • Start the engine with the radiator cap off. As the engine warms up, trapped air will escape. Refill as needed until the radiator is full.

7. Check the Coolant Reservoir:

   • Fill the overflow reservoir to the “Full” mark with the same mixture.

8. Inspect for Leaks:

   • Check under the car for any leaks around the drain plug or radiator.

9. Replace the Radiator Cap:

   • Once everything is secure and the coolant level is stable, replace the radiator cap.

10. Dispose of Old Coolant Properly:

    • Take the old water or coolant to a recycling center or auto shop that handles hazardous waste.

Steps to Change Brake Pads:

1. Prepare: Park on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and loosen lug nuts slightly.

2. Lift the Car: Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.

3. Remove Caliper: Unbolt the caliper and suspend it (don’t let it hang by the brake hose).

4. Replace Pads: Slide out old pads, compress the caliper piston with a C-clamp, and insert new pads.

5. Reinstall: Reattach the caliper, put the wheel back on, and tighten lug nuts in a star pattern.

6. Test Brakes: Pump the brake pedal and test the brakes before driving.

Materials Needed:

• New oil (correct type and amount for your car)
• New oil filter
• Wrench (oil filter wrench optional)
• Oil drain pan
• Funnel
• Gloves and safety goggles

Steps to Change Oil and Filter:

1. Prepare:

   • Park the car on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and let the engine cool.

2. Locate the Drain Plug:

   • Underneath the car, find the oil drain plug on the oil pan.

3. Drain the Oil:

   • Place the drain pan under the plug, loosen it with a wrench, and let the oil drain completely.

4. Remove the Oil Filter:

   • Unscrew the old oil filter (use a filter wrench if needed). Be ready for some oil to spill.

5. Install the New Oil Filter:

   • Apply a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter. Screw it in by hand until snug, then tighten slightly more.

6. Reinstall the Drain Plug:

   • Once the oil has drained, reattach the drain plug securely.

7. Add New Oil:

   • Remove the oil cap on the engine, place the funnel, and pour in the new oil. Check the dipstick to ensure the correct level.

8. Check for Leaks:

   • Start the engine and let it run for a minute, then check underneath for leaks.

9. Dispose of Used Oil:

   • Take the old oil and filter to a recycling center or auto shop.

teps to Check Your Engine:

1. Park Safely:

   • Park on a flat surface, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool completely.

2. Open the Hood:

   • Pull the hood release lever inside your car, then locate the latch under the hood to lift it fully. Secure it with the prop rod if needed.

3. Inspect Fluid Levels:

   • Oil: Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then check the oil level and condition.
   • Coolant: Check the level in the coolant reservoir. Top up if it’s low but only when the engine is cool.
   • Brake Fluid and Power Steering Fluid: Check their respective reservoirs.

4. Examine Belts and Hoses:

   • Look for cracks, fraying, or loose connections in belts and hoses.

5. Inspect Battery:

   • Check for corrosion on terminals and ensure the battery is secure.

6. Look for Leaks:

   • Check underneath the car for oil, coolant, or other fluid leaks.

7. Check the Air Filter:

   • Remove the air filter cover and inspect the filter for dirt or clogging. Replace it if necessary.

8. Listen for Unusual Noises (Optional):

   • Start the engine and listen for knocking, hissing, or other abnormal sounds.

9. Check Engine Lights:

   • If the check engine light is on, use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve error codes for further investigation.

10. Inspect Spark Plugs (Optional):

• Remove and inspect the spark plugs for wear or fouling if you suspect ignition issues.