As we continuously use our 4×4’s and SUV’s, we have to routinely check all of its fluids and lubricants to keep our vehicle running right. For this article, I have outlined a few simple steps of the things that we should check BEFORE we start our engine and go on our daily drive.

First and foremost, we have to check our garage floor under the 4×4. Check the floor for oil or any other fluid stain. The usual wet spot on the floor is water from the A/C, which should be very clear water. Any other colored stains, be it oil, coolant, and others should be investigated, as it is a tell tale sign of a leak somewhere. At the same time, check your tires for visual signs of low air pressure, wear, puncture, or a bulge.

With the key removed from the ignition and in your pocket (especially those of us who have kids), then open the hood.

1. Locate your engine oil dipstick, pull it out, wipe it with a cloth, and insert it again. Pull it out a second time and check the oil level.Your engine oil level should be between the MIN or L and the MAX or H levels of the dipstick. I personally keep it at around ¾’s from MIN to MAX. It usually takes about 1 liter liter of oil from MIN to MAX.

   On this vehicle, I found the oil level a bit on the low side and added ½ liter of motor oil.Do not go over the MAX level as you will be in danger of your engines crankshaft hitting the oil and beating it to a foam, which will lower performance and heat up your oil.

   

2. You should then check the brake fluid reservoir. Keep the level near MAX for safety.If you need to add some fluid, make sure you have the right DOT number posted on the cover, and that it comes from a sealed container.It is best not to keep an opened brake fluid container in the garage too long, as brake fluid tends to absorb moisture that will hurt your brake system.

   

3. Next to check is your power steering reservoir. Open it and take the dipstick out and check it. Usually we have different levels for HOT and COLD. If we haven’t run our vehicle yet, check the COLD level.If you lack a bit of oil, the power steering usually uses ATF, or automatic transmission fluid. Usually it’s either DEXRON II or DEXRON III. It is important to use the right ATF rating for your steering. Please follow the vehicle manufacturer’s rating.

   It would be nice to occasionally wipe the dipstick on a white tissue and see if the oil color is still red. If not, schedule a fluid change.

   

4. Then we should check our coolant level. Since the vehicle has not been started yet, it is still safe to open the radiator cap. Open the radiator cap very slowly and check the water level. If you lack a bit of water (like half a glass or less), that’s normal.Check your coolant reservoir as well. With the vehicle cold, the level should not exceed MAX, as you might overflow your reservoir when your engine is in operating temperature.

   Add water and coolant mix if necessary. I use a mix of Wilkins or any other brand of drinking water, with some coolant. DO NOT USE TAP WATER, as it will make your cooling system really dirty.

   I usually keep a liter of water mixed with coolant handy in the garage for this. Follow coolant manufacturers mix ratio. DO NOT OVERMIX COOLANT, as more coolant will not make your engine cooler, but instead make it a bit hotter. So, use the right mix ratio, usually 50% water, 50% coolant. Some brands use 3 parts water to 1 part coolant. Coolant is important to keep your cooling system rust free, and lubricate your water pump seals as well.

   

   For rigs with manual transmissions, you are all set to go on your daily drive!

5. For vehicles with automatic transmissions, read on.With the handbrake on, start your vehicle. Step on the brake, and shift through all the gears, R, N, D, 2, 1, and hold each gear for 5 secs before shifting to the next. Then put your transmission in Neutral to circulate the oil.

   With the engine running and in neutral, pull out your transmission dipstick and check the level. As our engine was cold, the fluid level should be in between the two marks on the COLD side. If not, add a bit of oil through the dipstick tube and check again.

   If you lack oil, add a bit at a time of ATF through the dipstick tube. Use the proper fluid, usually DEXRON II or DEXRON III. Fords usually use MERCON V. It is very important to use the right oil for your vehicle, so follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.Occasionally wipe the dipstick on a white tissue and see if the oil color is still red. Try to smell the oil and see if it has a burned smell. If your oil is no longer red and smells a bit burned, schedule an oil change.

   

That’s about it for your routine check-up. Remember to check the battery terminals for corrosion, water if you don’t use a sealed battery. Take a look at your fanbelts as well. Check for cracks, and loose belts. I have a practice of keeping spare belts in the vehicle as I usually go on long drives. Most importantly always remember to check the fuel gauge.

This way, we could keep our 4×4 running for many years to come.