Knowing the blood and lifeline of your car’s system - Brake, Power Steering, Battery and Radiator Coolant Fluids

Now that you’ve known the other car care basics, perhaps it’s time we take a look at the fluid essentials that are literally the life giving blood of your car.


1. Brake Fluid - Is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used in hydraulic brake applications of your car, motorcycles and trucks. This type of fluid is used to transfer force under pressure from its point of origin among hydraulic lines to the braking mechanism close to the wheels.

Most brake fluids today are composed of glycol-ether but several types with mineral oil and silicone composites are also out in the market. This type of fluid should meet stringent requirements set by organizations such as SAE and the US Department of Transportation (DOT) - hence you get ratings on labels such as SAE or DOT 3 and 4 compliance.

As a rule of thumb, brake fluid should always be replenished if the levels in its container decrease with every drive. Fluid level in the master cyclinder will drop as the linings, brake pads and shoes wear and the calipers extend further to compensate. Brake fluid level may also be low because of leaking, which can lead to loss of hydraulic pressure and the most dangerous- brake loss.

It is very important to constantly monitor your brake fluid levels to ensure safe driving and fill according to the set level. Flush and change your brake fluid every 1-2 years to further ensure reliability and take note to never mix brake fluids with different DOT ratings as this can result to poor fluid performance.

2. Power Steering – Is another type of hydraulic fluid that transmits the power steering system of cars, trucks and other modes of transportation.

This is the fluid that guards your power-steering pump and rack from wear and tear. It requires constant monitoring and refilling from time to time according to the required level in its cylinder.

A way to notice that your steering system is about to have a problem or that your power steering fluid is running low is when you turn the steering wheel and you hear whining noises. Have your car checked when this occurs to prevent serious damages to your power- steering system.

Note: There are products out in the market today that contain the combined properties of Power Steering and Automatic Transmission Fluids (ATF). Use any of these products to save and be protected more.


3. Battery Fluid - Is the electrolyte fluid found inside the cells of your battery. If you are using the regular type of battery and not the maintenance free one, then you are required to refill your battery cells from time to time with electrolyte fluid.

Standard battery for cars is 12V and usually has 6 individual cells inside it. To refill, simply remove the vent caps that can either be found on top or on the sides of the battery. Check and fill the electrolyte fluid inside.

Note: There are some brands of maintenance free batteries out in the market today that can run on dual power- meaning they also have vent caps for electrolyte fluids in case their power supply run out. Although this type of battery may not come cheap, it would be best for you to use it.

4. Radiator Coolant- Is a mixture of anti-freeze fluid and water designed to protect the radiator and cooling system all year round. Using one will protect your engine from overheating. Most coolant products out in the market today come with various additives that can further help you against rust and other forms of corrosion, lubricate or increase the cooling efficiency of your cooling system.

Simply pour out the contents of your coolant to the radiator reservoir. Add water to the set level and you’re done.

For maintenance, it is very important for you to drain and flush your coolant once a year (or depending on the product recommendations) and replace it with a new one.

Note: Never mix different types of coolant together as this can lead to damage or a reduction of your car’s cooling system. Before changing to another brand, be sure to drain and flush your cooling system of the old one.

See to it that the reservoirs of these fluids are in constant levels and refill when they’re not enough. Properly maintaining them will help ensure your safety and prolong the life of your car.

Buckle up and drive safely.

by: Jovir Amatong
AutoTerminal.com

Test Drive Tips

Are you planning to buy a car? This can be exciting and puzzling, especially if it’s your first time. Cars nowadays can be bought just about anywhere. You can see them by the road, next door, online, or by the local dealerships. There are a great deal of sources to consider and a test drive is the best way to start. Here are some tips to help choose your perfect match wisely.

1. Bring a Friend.
- You’ll need a clear, objective perspective from a friend or relative who knows more about cars and your needs well. Their insights could help a lot especially if they have tried driving a similar model.

2. Take your time.
- It’s better to borrow the car for the day or evening. But if they refuse, make sure to spend a few hours with the vehicle alone. If you have enough flexibility to decide, use all the time you need. Don’t be in a hurry to buy without rethinking the pros and cons.

3. Familiarize yourself with the car’s controls before setting off.
- Once you’re doing the test drive, it’s recommended to maintain concentration and focus. Ask the dealer or sales person about the unusual symbols and buttons. Avoid switching and searching for buttons when driving; this can be very dangerous.

4. Get curious and keep asking questions.
- If you still need some clarification on the vehicle, don’t hesitate to ask. Face it, if this is the first time for you
to buy a car, you’d want to clear all the doubt and questions in your mind. It’s understandable to slightly annoy the dealer with questions about their merchandise; it’s really their job to satisfy you and customers are always right. Ask about the safety features, the mpg, after sales services and other important questions.

5. Choose a different driving route.
- Try the unfamiliar route or road less traveled. Through a different driving route you’ll get more clues and indications on the versatility and performance of the car.

6. Try sitting on the front and back seat.
- Let your relative or friend drive as well. You’ll discover some things from the passenger seat that you couldn’t see from the driver’s seat. That way, you’ll check the car from different perspectives.

7. Test and compare different makes.
- Test two similar models from similar makes or brands. If the dealer permits, you should take the time to try several models for comparison. Just like buying the perfect pair of shoes, look for the perfect fit.

8. Don’t be obliged to buy from the first dealer.
- The car might fit your needs and specifications, but that doesn’t mean you must buy it right away. Don’t let the dealer guilt you into buying it. Remember to check the credentials of the dealer and weigh your options as well.

by: Amalia Aviles
AutoTerminal.com

10 do-it-yourself ways to solve car starting problems

Car ignition problems have a knack of turning up during the most inopportune time and in the most inconvenient places – like when you are in the middle of nowhere on your way to an important job interview. Here are ten techniques to troubleshoot this motoring menace:

1. Clean your battery posts. Remove corrosion and dirt in the contact area between your battery posts and the wire clamps that connect to your battery.

2. Jumpstart your car. First of all, carry a multimeter tester in your car. It’s cheap and takes up negligible space in your toolbox. But if you are one of those people who hate to carry one around, the only way to find out if your battery is dead or dying is by jumpstarting with the help of another car. If your car starts without a hitch, your battery is most likely the problem.

3. Blame the ignition switch. If you can be fairly certain that your battery isn’t the problem, blame the ignition switch. Turn the key to the “on” position but not all the way to “start.” If the low battery warning lights on your dashboard don’t light up, then you may indeed have a faulty ignition switch. To confirm your suspicions, turn on the headlights before starting the car. If the headlights don’t dim drastically or turn off completely when you try starting, then you are right about blaming the switch.

4. Investigate the starter. Make sure the starter doesn’t have a loose connection. It’s easy to see the wires that connect to the starter motor, assuming you know what a starter motor looks like. If not, search Google Images for “car+starter+motor.” Now!

5. Check your fuses. While it’s understandable that you are about to blow a fuse by now, try having a little more patience. If your car has a fuse box which is associated with the starting system, you might want to make sure that the problem is not as simple as a blown fuse. You might want to do this before getting your hands dirty with step numbers 1 to 4. Oops, sorry!

6. Test the ignition coil. Use a multimeter tester that can measure impedance. In the absence of a multimeter tester, use your hands to feel if there is any current in the coil when the car is started. Really, a lot of people do this but I don’t recommend it.

7. Inspect the coil wires. Examine the coil wires and see if they are shorted or broken then use the multimeter tester to ensure their connectivity.

8. Wipe the distributor cap. Remove the cap and wipe off any moisture with a clean and dry cloth. Look for cracks and replace when necessary.

9. See if the oil filter is clogged. The oil filter has an average lifespan of about 12,000 miles.

10. Tighten electrical connections. Your car’s fuel injection system has a lot of electrical connections. In simple terms, tighten every electrical connection you can get your hands on under the hood.

If you have already exhausted these 10 easy ways but your car still refuses to start, there could be a bigger problem that requires an expert’s attention. The question isn’t whether you should call a mechanic or a towing service. The question is: If you were on your way to an important job interview, why, for Pete’s sake, did you have to stop in the middle of nowhere and turn off the engine?

by: Evert Canada
AutoTerminal.com

Road Saftey Tips for Drivers

Are you a responsible driver? About a million people all over the world die of road accidents every year. Follow these essential road safety tips for your own sake and others.

1. Belt yourself
– whether you are on the front seat or back, you are still at risk.
– If you don’t, you could kill someone in the front as well as yourself.
– Check if everyone is belted well before you hit the road and make sure you do, even on short trips.
– Seats must be suited to your child’s size , weight, and for your vehicle. They must be
properly fastened as well. Avoid using second-hand seats; only brand new and reliable brands.

2. Wake yourself
– Don’t risk driving when you’re sleepy.
– If you do, chances are you’ll keep nodding while driving.
– Research shows that the greatest risk of falling asleep at the wheel is between midnight-6am and 2-4pm; so get enough rest before setting off.
– If ever you feel drowsy while driving, pull over; experts suggest to get a cup of coffee or an energy drink with caffeine. After drinking, park beside a busy and well-lit area and nap for a few minutes to give time for the caffeine to kick in.
– Start driving only if you are alert again.

3. Sober yourself
– Don’t drive under the influence of any substance.
– Don’t drive if you feel heavy and tipsy after drinking; trying to look sober won’t work and there’s a big chance you’ll doze off and crash. Sleep it off somewhere until you get sober.
– Don’t be an idiot. Alcohol slows your responses, dulls your judgement and vision and impairs your ability to drive; same goes for illegal drugs.
– If you go out to drink with friends, it’s better to let your sober friend (with a driver’s license) drive on the way back home.

4. Control yourself
– Don’t overspeed.
– Check your speedometer and don’t go over the speed limits. The faster you go, the harder you’ll hit anything or anyone.
– Watch for the speed limits by the side of the road. In some countries, speed cameras are installed and you’ll have to pay a hefty amount of money or worse, crash your car.
– Don’t attempt to overtake if you’re not so sure the road is clear.

5. Prep yourself
– Drive wisely in bad weather conditions.
– When it rains, make sure your headlights function well and keep them on a dipped beam when necessary.
– Slow down especially when you’re on wet and snowy roads; you might skid and topple over.
– Drive at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle infront of you and avoid braking and steering sharply.
– Make sure to bring an emergency winter kit stocked with cloth, ice scraper, glass cleaner, anti-freeze, kitty litter, jack and wrench.

6. Alert yourself
– Don’t get distracted while driving.
– Pay attention to the road and avoid answering your mobile phone or changing a CD or song in your mp3 player. It only takes a split second to overlook potential danger.
– Be fully aware of your surroundings and you’ll be able to avoid hazards along the way. Driving is a complicated activity that requires your full concentration.
– Cyclists and pedestrians need to be watched out for especially in round abouts and pedestrian crossings.

7. Check yourself
– Inspect gear and vehicle fluids.
– Worn out tires may cause serious accidents. Use a tyre pressure gauge to make sure they are also properly inflated and do not have tears.
– Do you have enough break fluid? Is there a leak? Check for scheduled check ups on your vehicle.
– Also make sure your head lights are cleaned properly and bulbs aren’t blown. You need ample visibility on the road.

by Amalia Aviles
www.autoterminal.com

Discovering Odometer Fraud: How to rule out deceptive rollback

Odometer tampering is an under rated risk every used car buyer must contend with. The United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that odometer fraud results in consumer losses of more than $1 billion annually. But many countries around the world are not putting enough effort to combat this threat in terms of legislating specific laws and informing the public.

But what is odometer fraud, anyway? Odometer fraud is a common scam wherein sellers roll back the mileage reading of a vehicle. This, of course, falsely inflates its value. When vehicles with more than 100,000 miles on them have their odometers clocked back to about half of its actual mileage, buyers end up paying a lot more than the vehicle’s real worth – not just in the buying price but also in the subsequent cost of repairs that the vehicle inevitably brings.

Make sure the next pre-owned vehicle you purchase doesn’t have a tampered odometer. It can be difficult but certainly not impossible to detect odometer tampering. Here are some practical ways to do it.

o If you are importing the vehicle and can’t inspect it in person, make sure that the company you are importing from has a reliable odometer inspection service, preferably by an independent third party;
o Check the title and ownership history documents to see if the mileage reading on the documents have been altered;
o Check the service records and look for service stickers inside the door or under the hood that may give the actual mileage;
o When buying from a private seller, check if the car is being sold immediately after a new title was issued – the new title could have been obtained because an alteration of the mileage reading was apparent on the old title;
o If you could inspect the vehicle in person, look for loose screws or scratch marks around the dashboard and misalignment of the digits (especially the 10,000 digit);
o Check for inconsistencies: vehicles with low mileage readings usually still have their original parts such as batteries, hoses and clamps, and they shouldn’t show heavy wear on the seats, arm rest and steering;

Digital Odometers

Many new cars have digital odometers and a lot of consumers believe that these modern mileage counters are a lot more tamper-proof than the mechanical kind. The sad fact is that, given the right tools – a diagnostic computer and a software program readily downloadable from the net, for free – anyone can make the alteration in mere minutes. And what makes it even worse is that an electronic rollback is much harder to detect.

Be extra careful when buying used vehicles with digital odometers. The best way to ensure that they were not tampered with is by checking whether the mileage data on the vehicle’s ownership history report and service records correspond to its current mileage reading. A vehicle used privately runs at an average of 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers per year. If the odometer reading is inconsistent with its age, take extra care in scrutinizing its history.

by Evert Canada
AutoTerminal.com

How to detect hidden defects in a used car

Imagine yourself in the seller's shoes. You are trying to sell your old coupe for a bigger sedan. You gather the keys, rummage through your pile of junk for the owner's manual and old service records. You clean the engines, vacuum the interiors, rub out the stains on the cushions and put your coupe through a car wash.

When you get home to admire the sheen of the freshly polished wax, you notice some scratches and dents. Luckily, you have the cosmetics for such a contingency. And if your luck holds out, buyers wouldn’t even notice the dents and scratches. You are now ready to meet the buyers with a smile borne out of a clean conscience.

Imagine and remember this because this is exactly how a private seller with an ounce of business sense would prep his or her vehicle before a sale. Dealers could do it a lot better when they try. So, how do you see past the haphazard paint job? There is a way to detect hidden defects on the vehicle.

Body
• Check if the paint on the outside of the car matches the paint inside the door frame. Check for gritty surfaces and paint overspray on chrome – possible signs of a new paint job or masking body dents and scratches.
• Check if the panels line up evenly. Also check if there are any scuffs, scratches, dents or irregular protrusions in the wings and bumper – these could be warning signs of past accidents.

Doors and Trunk Lid
• Make sure that doors and lid open without any creaks and close smoothly without being slammed. A door or lid that doesn’t fit evenly could indicate that the vehicle was involved in a collision or was regularly driven in rough roads.
• Check that the locks work properly.
• Look for rips and stains on the interior panel of the door and scrapes on the bottom edges.

Windows
• See if there are any hairline cracks or tiny holes in the glass.
• Make sure that they move up and down smoothly and if they fit snugly when fully rolled up or down.

Tailpipe
• Check if the tailpipe is damaged from poor reversing.
• Examine the rear bumper for excessive soot from the exhaust. If the tailpipe has black gummy soot, this may indicate that the engine has worn rings or bad valves, which could mean expensive repairs.

Tires and Shock Absorbers
• Check the tires (don’t forget the spare) if they are unevenly worn as this may indicate either bad alignment or worse – damaged suspension.
• Put your full weight on a corner of the car and release – if the car keeps rocking up and down, be wary about the condition of the shock absorbers.

Interiors
• Check if the steering wheel points straight when the wheels are aligned ahead.
• Check the upholstery for cigarette burns, rips, stains or scuffs. Low mileage readings but worn out driver’s seat and brake and accelerator pedals could mean that the odometer has been tampered.
• Musty smell, dirt under the mat, moisture inside the trunk and watermarks on the interior panels of doors are likely indicators of flood damage.

Lights and Mechanical Devices
• Make sure the lights, air conditioner, heater, windshield wipers, radio and other accessories work properly.

Already sounds like too much work? This doesn’t include checking out the engine and gauging the vehicle’s driving performance yet. That’s a long topic that needs to be addressed in a separate article. Nevertheless, what we’ve discussed could help you unmask any hastily dressed up lemon to reveal its true colors, so to speak.

If you want convenience, buy from a reputable dealer who sells the vehicle “as is.” The dealer does the checking for you, documents all the dents, scratches and damages worth noting and includes the information in the vehicle description. Then all you need to do is negotiate the price.

www.autoterminal.com

Things to look out for when buying a used car

Usually when selecting for a used car, “essential factors” should be looked at first to ensure that you’re really buying your money’s worth.

1. Watch out for that lemon- Probably the danger in buying used cars is when you don’t know much about the history of repairs and cranks of the vehicle you got, without proper vehicle inspection, probably you’ll end up stuck on the road and spending hundreds or perhaps thousands of dollars on repairs. If you bought a lemon, your car’s better off at a local junkyard.

2. Odometer Readings – Be on the lookout for Odometer tampering. Perhaps you might like a car based on odometer reading, as you thought that the lower its reading, the better the chances that you’re getting a good car.

3. Vehicle Ownership history- This one has got to be the worst. Suppose you got a car that you thought was good and you drive it, then suddenly you get pulled over and cuffed by the cops, then too late, you found out that the vehicle you’re driving is a “hot car” or stolen one! It’s much better that before you buy the car of your choice, you should be acquainted with its qualities in or out. That way you’ll have worry- free driving!

4. Purchase only from reliable dealers- Perhaps the best part of them all, is buying your car from a reliable dealer. You see, a good dealer will always see to it that the best service is given as possible according to the satisfaction of his customer in order to protect his name and reputation.

With a whole field of dealers to choose from nowadays, seeing this part thru may come as quite a burden; but with used car dealers like AutoTerminal.com you can worry no more as their vehicles has passed the most stringent of inspection services plus more to make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth and to your satisfaction.

Browse their website and avail of their services at -- www.autoterminal.com