Air Filter
Check every two to three months.
A dirty air filter reduces gas mileage and the lifespan of your motor.
Replace it when it is dirty or during your annual engine performance check.
If you drive in very dusty conditions, you may need to check your air filter more frequently.

Battery
Have the battery checked with every oil change and periodically check cables for corrosion.
Use of felt rings (positioned around the battery post under the clamp) available at any auto parts store will reduce corrosion.
Consider replacing your battery if it is three years old or older.

Belts and Hoses
Check monthly.
If your belts or hoses look or feel hard, spongy, cracked or shiny, they should be replaced right away. It’s best to leave the replacement to an expert.
Also, be on the lookout for loose, cracked or missing clamps.

Brake Fluid
Check monthly.
First, wipe any dirt from the master brake cylinder cover. Then remove the cover.
If you need fluid, add the proper type (refer to your owners manual) and check for possible leaks. Don’t overfill.

Brake System
Experts recommend having your brake system thoroughly inspected once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Coolant/Antifreeze
Check frequently.
You should be able to see the level of coolant in the reservoir.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if the level is low.
If necessary, add coolant to the reservoir NOT the radiator and fill to the proper level.

Engine Oil
Check oil level regularly (twice a month is ideal).
Have the oil (and oil filter) changed every three months or every 3,000 miles, whichever comes first, unless your vehicles manufacturer specifies otherwise.

Lights
Check regularly to ensure they are clean and in good working order.

Remember to check:
Headlights
Taillights
Brake lights
Turn signals

Power Steering Fluid
Check monthly using the reservoir dipstick.
If low, add the proper type of fluid (refer to your owners manual).
Inspect the pump and hoses for leaks.

Shock Absorbers
Test once every two to three months by bouncing your car up and down; when you step away, the car should stop bouncing.
Always replace shock absorbers in pairs.

Tire Pressure
Check monthly when tires are cold that is, when they have not been used for at least three hours using a tire gauge.
For proper tire inflation, refer to your owner’s manual or the label on the driver’s side door edge or in the glove compartment of your vehicle.
The number molded into the sidewall of your tires is the maximum, not the recommended, tire pressure.

Wheel Alignment
Have the alignment checked immediately if the vehicle feels loose, pulls to one side or if there is uneven tire wear.

Tire Rotation
Have your tires rotated approximately every 6,000 miles or with every other oil change.

Tire Tread
Look for uneven wear, separation or excessive smoothness.
Replace tires immediately if the tread has worn down to 1/16 of an inch or less.
Use a measuring device or the penny test: Insert a penny with the head pointed down into the tread groove. If you can see all of Lincolns head, your tires need to be replaced.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic – Check your owner’s manual for the exact procedure.

Most vehicles should be running at normal operating temperature with the parking brake firmly set.

Then shift the transmission into park or neutral (refer to the owner s manual or look on the dipstick), remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, fully reinsert it and remove it again.
Read the fluid level and add fluid of the recommended type as needed.

Manual Transmission
Checking the fluid on a manual transmission is better left to a service professional, as the car must often be raised.

Washer Fluid
Check the washer fluid reservoir regularly and add fluid as needed.

Wiper Blades
Check at least twice each year for signs of wear.
Replace if wipers streak or smear.
Don’t wait until the rubber is brittle or worn.