Car Freak

How to Check Oil, Brake Fluid & Tire Pressure: A Complete DIY Guide

• admin
• 0
• Posted on April 5, 2025

Proper vehicle maintenance starts with regularly checking essential fluids and tire pressure. These simple checks can prevent costly repairs and keep your car running safely. Follow this step-by-step guide to inspect your oil, brake fluid, and tire pressure like a professional mechanic.

Part 1: How to Check Engine Oil

When to Check:

• Once a month
• Before long trips
• If the oil warning light appears

Tools Needed:

• Clean rag or paper towel
• Gloves (optional)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Park on Level Ground & Turn Off Engine

• Wait 5-10 minutes for oil to settle

1. Locate the Dipstick

• Usually has a yellow or orange handle marked “OIL”
• Consult manual if unsure

1. Pull Out and Wipe Clean

• Remove dipstick completely
• Wipe with clean rag

1. Reinsert Fully and Remove Again

• Don’t screw it in – just push all the way down

1. Check Oil Level

• Should be between MIN/MAX or two dots
• Oil color should be amber to light brown
• Dark black or milky oil indicates problems

1. Add Oil if Low

• Use type recommended in owner’s manual
• Add small amounts (½ quart at a time)
• Recheck level after each addition

Warning Signs:

• Oil below minimum level
• Metal particles in oil
• Burning smell

Part 2: How to Check Brake Fluid

When to Check:

• Every oil change (3-6 months)
• If brake pedal feels spongy
• Before mountain driving

Tools Needed:

• Clean cloth
• Flashlight

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Locate Brake Fluid Reservoir

• Small plastic tank near firewall
• Labeled “Brake Fluid” with MIN/MAX marks

1. Clean Reservoir Cap

• Prevent dirt from entering system

1. Check Fluid Level

• Should be between MIN/MAX lines
• New fluid is clear/yellow
• Dark fluid needs replacement

1. Inspect for Leaks

• Look under car for wet spots
• Check around master cylinder

1. Add Fluid if Needed

• Use DOT type specified on cap
• Don’t overfill – leave space for expansion

Critical Notes:

• Never let reservoir go empty (air enters system)
• Dark fluid = moisture contamination
• Low fluid may indicate worn brake pads

Part 3: How to Check Tire Pressure

When to Check:

• Once a month
• Before long trips
• After temperature drops >10°F

Tools Needed:

• Quality tire pressure gauge
• Air compressor (if needed)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Check When Tires Are Cold

• Before driving or after sitting 3+ hours

1. Find Recommended PSI

• Driver’s door jamb sticker (not tire sidewall)
• Typically 30-35 PSI for most cars

1. Remove Valve Cap

• Keep in safe place
• Inspect valve stem for damage

1. Press Gauge Firmly Onto Valve

• Digital or dial gauge most accurate
• If you hear hissing, adjust angle

1. Read Pressure

• Compare to recommended PSI
• Check all 4 tires + spare

1. Add or Release Air as Needed

• Add air in short bursts
• Recheck after adjusting

1. Replace Valve Caps

• Prevents dirt/debris entry

Pro Tips:

• Check pressure when tires are cold for accuracy
• Don’t forget the spare tire
• Consider TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) reset after adjustment

Maintenance Schedule Summary

Check	Frequency	Warning Signs
Engine Oil	Monthly	Dark color, low level, metal flakes
Brake Fluid	Every 3-6 months	Dark color, low level, spongy pedal
Tire Pressure	Monthly + temp changes	Uneven wear, low pressure light

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Checking Oil on Inclined Surface

• Gives false reading

1. Overfilling Brake Fluid

• Can cause overflow when brakes get hot

1. Using Tire Sidewall PSI

• Always use door jamb recommendation

1. Mixing Different Brake Fluid Types

• Use only specified DOT rating

1. Ignoring Seasonal Changes

• Tire pressure drops 1 PSI per 10°F temperature decrease

When to Seek Professional Help

While these checks are simple DIY tasks, consult a mechanic if you notice:

• Consistent oil loss between changes
• Brake fluid level keeps dropping
• Tires losing pressure rapidly
• Any leaks under the vehicle
• Warning lights remain on after addressing issues

Final Checklist for Quick Reference

Oil Check:
☐ Park on level surface
☐ Wait 5 minutes after turning off engine
☐ Check level between MIN/MAX marks
☐ Top up with correct oil type if low

Brake Fluid Check:
☐ Locate clear reservoir
☐ Verify level between marks
☐ Look for dark/discolored fluid
☐ Add specified DOT fluid if needed

Tire Pressure Check:
☐ Use cold tires
☐ Find recommended PSI on door jamb
☐ Check all tires + spare
☐ Adjust to proper pressure

By performing these simple checks regularly, you’ll extend your vehicle’s life, improve safety, and potentially avoid expensive repairs. Set a monthly reminder to inspect these critical components – your car (and wallet) will thank you.

---

Read More: