Perhaps the simplest maintenance on most vehicles is the regular oil and coolant change. Making a habit of checking and changing the oil and coolant will save thousands of dollars in costly engine repairs. Failing to do so will shorten the life of the car, and possibly void its warranty.

Oil changes

An oil change is recommended every 3,000 miles, even if the vehicle travels mostly on highways, according to the Car Care Council. With a regular oil change, the car’s engine will run more efficiently and last longer than if oil is replaced irregularly. Most oil changes only cost about $30 and the service will also include replacing the air filter and inspecting the transmission fluid. All these steps will help keep the vehicle running smoothly.
Try to check the vehicle’s battery every 3,000 miles, as well. Make sure a certified technician assures that the battery cover is in place and that the battery is firmly anchored. Most important, the battery should be cleaned of corrosion, especially around the electrical posts.

Coolant changes

Coolant, or antifreeze, is a very important fluid for a car’s continued good operation, especially during the temperature extremes of winter and summer. A failure of the cooling system is one of the leading causes of engine breakdowns when temperatures and driving conditions are extreme, according to the Car Care Council. However, replacing or changing the coolant is the easiest, do-it-yourself maintenance project for any automobile. Here’s how:

• Open the hood.

• Find the coolant tank. It is usually a white or semi-clear plastic tank with a black cap.

• Is the coolant level at or near the “FULL COOL” indicator line? If not, it is time to refill the tank.

• To do so, remove the coolant tank cap and add a 50-50 mixture of coolant and clean water up to the “FULL COOL” line.

It is that simple. Most people find the job takes only a few minutes and can be done in the comfort of their own garage.

If the coolant was replaced recently and the car’s antifreeze level is still low, this is a sign the vehicle may have a leaky hose. Have hoses that show any sign of wear and tear replaced as soon as possible.
When the vehicle’s coolant level is every low or close to empty, consider having the coolant system flushed. Again, this is a very simple, do-it-yourself process, according to the Car Care Council:

• Clean the radiator cooling fins.

• Place a drain pan under the drain valve.

• Remove the radiator pressure cap. Be sure the engine is cool before attempting this task. If the engine is hot, the radiator cap will be, too. This can result in severe burns or other injury.

• Inspect the pressure cap and hoses.

• Drain and rinse the radiator.

• Fill the cooling system half-full with antifreeze, then top it off with distilled water.

• Bleed the system to remove trapped air, and top off the system once again.

• Replace the pressure cap.

Though the process sounds complicated, it is very simple. Not in the mood? Most shops that perform oil changes and smog checks can flush the coolant system for a reasonable price. The most important point is to have it done regularly to keep the car running as long as possible.

- Request containers and used oil recycling information at the Used Oil Recycling Hotline, (707) 467-8248.

City of Vallejo Public Works

Personal benefits of recycling used oil:

Increase your own personal pride and esteem by doing what you know is the right thing to do.

Reduce risks of oil spills in your garage, workshop, shed or yard.

Reduce fire and health hazards for your family and neighbors.

You can receive 16 cents for each gallon you recycle at any used oil collection center.

Why recycle used oil?

More than 33 million gallons of oil are sold to “do-it-yourself” oil changers in California each year.

Only 8 million gallons are recycled.

Approximately 11 million gallons are lost during driving (leaks and burned).

14 million gallons are unaccounted for and improperly disposed into the environment.

One quart of oil can pollute 250,000 gallons of drinking water.

Used oil from a single oil change can ruin 1 million gallons of fresh water — a one-year supply for 50 people!

Before you drop off your used motor oil:

Used motor oil cannot be accepted if mixed with any other liquid.

Used motor oil is only accepted during normal business hours. Leaving any item during closed hours is illegal.