Performing a self-service checkup

If you'll watch motorists coming and going at self-service gas stations, you'll see a lot of folks who are in big hurry. What you won't see are people taking time out to make a few simple checks under the hood.

The Car Care Council says that over 80% of vehicles on the road have either low or dirty fluids. So while the gallons are clicking by on the pump, I suggest popping that hood and checking the fluids. In many of today's cars the type of fluid is marked on the cap, otherwise refer to your owner's manual for location information.

Cars have a number of fluids, but the six easiest ones to check during a fill up are the oil, antifreeze, brake fluid and washer solution. The transmission fluid needs to be checked with the car running, so wait until after filling up to look at it.

If you find that any of the fluids are low or dirty, it's time to make an appointment at your repair facility. If you're at a convenient store many of these fluids, such as oil, antifreeze, brake fluid and washer solution can probably be purchased on the spot. If you feel comfortable topping off these reservoirs yourself, there's no time like the present.

For more auto maintenance tips log on www.carcarecouncil.org.