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Story Published: Jul 19, 2006 at 2:30 PM PDT
Story Updated: Aug 31, 2006 at 8:31 AM PDT
Breaking down along the side of the road when you're headed on vacation is no fun.
Some things are beyond your control, but taking about 10 minutes to look under the hood and check the tires including the spare in the trunk could save you hours of grief.
The other day, I met with Barbara Terry, an auto mechanic from Texas, who was in Seattle as part of a tour for Shell Oil. She gave me this checklist of what to do:
- Check the oil. Make sure the oil comes to the top hatch-mark on the dip stick. If not, add more, but don't overfill. Too much oil can cause engine problems.
- Check the transmission fluid. The dipstick will let you know if you have enough, but don't stop there. The fluid should be bright red. Terry told me you should also feel it and small it. Transmission fluid should never feel gritty and grimy, she says. If it smells burnt, you might have a transmission issue.
- Check your cooling system. This is one of the most important things you can do. Start with the rubber hoses. If you see little bubbles or cracks, you need to have them replaced.
- Check the radiator coolant. Don't take off the radiator cap, just
look at the plastic overflow reservoir. If you need coolant, add a 50/50
mixture half coolant/ half water. Andy Pomeroy, regional automotive
manager at AAA-Washington, says its important to use the type of coolant
made for your vehicle. When in doubt, Pomeroy says, have the system flushed professionally and
document the type and brand of fluid used. Heres what he told us:
Dex-Cool (orange) contains Organic Acid Technology (OAT) to protect the cooling system. It lasts longer but is not compatible with other coolants. Do not mix orange Dex Cool with any other anti-freeze.
Propylene Glycol, which comes in various colors is safer because it is non-toxic. But it is not compatible with any other anti-freeze.
- Check the air filter. A dirty air filter will make your engine work harder and reduce your fuel efficiency. Your owners manual will tell you how often to change the filter. Terry says thats usually every 15,000 miles, unless youre driving in really dusty conditions.
- Check the windshield wiper fluid. You may need to do a lot of window washing on that road trip.
So what should you do if the worst happens, and your engine starts to overheat? Get off the side of the freeway, Terry says. Pop your hood so your motor can start cooling down, and give it about an hour before you start messing around underneath, so you don't burn yourself.
Remember; dont open the cap on your radiator. The liquid inside is incredibly hot and under a lot of pressure. Take off the cap and it will come shooting out all over the place.
Whether you are headed far away or just driving around town, there are some things you should always have in the car with you. Heres a list of the things auto mechanic Barbara Terry has in her car and the things I have in mine.
Oil, flashlight, engine coolant, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, jumper cables, blanket, first aid kit, flares, wet wipes, water, and some snack food. There may be some other things you want to have with you in case of an emergency.
For More Information:
Summer Heat Can be Dangerous to Cars and Occupants