Mechanical
AIR FILTER. Replace according to owner’s manual; more often in dusty conditions. A dirty filter will lower fuel economy and hurt performance.
BATTERY. More batteries fail in hot weather than cold. If there is corrosion on the connections, clean it with a weak solution of baking soda and water (one tablespoon per cup) using a stiff, nonmetallic brush. Protect the connections with an anti-corrosion spray or petroleum jelly. Always remove the negative cable first and attach it last. If your battery has caps, make sure the electrolyte is at the correct level, or add distilled water if necessary.
BELTS. Make sure drive belts are adjusted for a snug fit and not cracked, glazed or frayed.
COOLING SYSTEM. Inspect hose clamps for tightness. Check radiator hoses and heater hoses for bulges or cracks. Check for sponginess by squeezing them. Remove the cap from a cool radiator or surge tank to make sure the system is full. Use a hydrometer to test for the right mixture, usually 50-50 antifreeze and water to protect from boil-over. If it’s time for replacement, do a flush and fill. Dispose of the old coolant properly. Find a recycling center at earth911.com.
ENGINE. Clean it. Cover distributor and air intake (carburetor or throttle body) with plastic. With the engine warm, but not hot, spray on engine cleaner and allow it to work while you’re cleaning the interior. Rinse with plenty of low-pressure water, avoiding electrical connectors.
OIL AND FILTER. Remove the dipstick and, using a clean rag, wipe it clean. Reinsert and remove it to check the level. It should be between “full” and “add.” If it is below the add mark, add a quart or get an oil change. Change the filter then too. If you had been using a lighter viscosity oil for the winter, change to a summer-weight oil having the right API rating (check your owner’s manual). Wipe a little oil on the filter gasket before installing.
POWER STEERING. Groaning noises or rough feel when you turn the wheel mean the system needs attention. The fluid is probably low, possibly because of a leak somewhere. Most power-steering systems have a dipstick on the underside of the cap.
TIRES. If the winter tires are still on your car, replace them with ones you put in storage. Otherwise, rotate the tires. Check all tires and inflate to the pressure found on the door jamb. Don’t forget the spare, which may need to be 60 psi or more if it’s a compact one. Look for uneven wear indicating the need for an alignment. If any of the wear bars are visible, replace the tires.
BRAKES. Inspect the brake pads (discs) or shoes (drums). If they are worn, replace them. Scored rotors or drums may be restored by machining, to a point. Most master cylinders are translucent, so you can see the brake fluid level from the side.
EXHAUST. Check for leaks by holding a rag over the outlet at the tailpipe and listening for hissing sounds.
TRANSMISSION. Many automatic transmissions still have dipsticks similar to those for engine oil, but consult your owner’s manual about checking. Often, the fluid must be checked while the engine is running, so it will be hot. Replace the fluid if it is dark or smells scorched.
A/C. Make sure the air conditioner blows cold. If it doesn’t, get an appointment for service before the summer rush. To help your air conditioning and cooling system work efficiently, open the hood and gently remove leaves, bugs and other detritus from the fins on the front of the A/C condenser and radiator. Be careful not to damage or bend the fins.
Appearance
LIGHTS AND BULBS. Turn the lights on and walk around the vehicle to check for burned-out bulbs. Have a friend apply the brakes, turn signals and flashers and the high beams. The owner’s manual lists replacement bulbs.
LOCKS AND HINGES. A graphite-based lubricant is recommended for locks. Insert it through the keyhole. Squirt oil on door, hood, trunk hinges and hood latch/release mechanism.
PAINT. Use professional touch-up paint to seal scratches or dings you found after cleaning the grunge off. The number for your car’s color is on the body plates, usually in the engine compartment and trunk. After washing the car, give it a solid shine by waxing or polishing. Choose a shady location for easier cleanup. Blast sand and salt from the wheel wells with a strong stream of water.
TRUNK. Make sure the jack is in good shape and all the parts accounted for.
WIPERS. Remove inserts and replace if worn. Replace the blades if the inserts are not replaceable. Top off the washer fluid. Diluting with a little water keeps it from evaporating too quickly on hot, sunny days.
— Bob Weber