#AbsoluteDrive: Under the hood

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Hi Ladies,

I have been wanting to incorporate these types of posts onto my blog but I was not sure if it was going to work. As some of you might know, I am currently work in the motor industry by day – for the last four years actually. I have a passion for cars and a real interest beyond how fast or great they look. My father has also worked in the motor industry for the last 35 years, so between the two of us we have quite a bit of experience on matters relating to cars. I am a speed freak, safety does come first of course and in this case, the size of the engine does matter!

On that note, I do believe that women can no longer get away with shrugging their shoulders and begging their partners to help them with their cars.More and more women are buying cars, so it makes sense that we would need to look after such an expensive purchase. Listen and listen carefully – saying that you don’t know and giggling is not cute! Google it or ask someone at your next vehicle service at your local dealership. Guys actually do pay attention to women who can hold their own in a conversation about cars – just saying.

Whats under my hood:

So I thought I would run you through some of the critical things to look out for under the bonnet of your vehicle which basically acts as the brain of the vehicle. If something stops working in this area it’s more than likely that you will get stuck on the side of the road which is a very scary thought.

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1. Engine coolant:

Make sure you ask the petrol attendant to check if you have water in the engine coolant because the radiator in your vehicle cools your engine and needs water and coolant (antifreeze) to function. If there is no water available,the vehicle could over heat which could cause serious damage to your car’s engine. Antifreeze is something that will be taken care of at your next vehicle service.

2. Brake Fluid Reserve:

Brake fluid is critical to assist your vehicle to brake (stop) when necessary or in an emergency. This is not something you need to worry about yourself , however this will be taken care of at your next vehicle service.

3. The Dipstick:

Checking your car’s oil level is the single most important thing you can do to extend the life of your car’s engine. The dipstick is a long rod that goes deep into your engine to check the oil level.Its pretty simple, pull the dipstick out and wipe the end clean with a towel or rag. Re-insert the dipstick into the engine, making sure it goes all the way in. The dipstick will have two marks at the bottom. This is something that a petrol attendant can help you with too.

4. The oil cap:

If for any reason your car needs oil then call the AA or your nearest dealer. If you feel you are able to do it yourself then call your nearest dealer for help over the phone. You will need to unscrew the cap, pour in 1 litre of oil from the petrol station. Then replace the cap, however be very careful as your vehicle could be very hot depending how long you have been driving. At services  the oil is also checked on your behalf. If you are not comfortable doing it yourself then drive to your nearest dealership for assistance.

5. Window washer fluid:

Now you might think this is not critical, however if you drive though mud or you have bird crap or bugs all over your windscreen and it impairs your vision this could become dangerous. You really do not need to be sold any expensive liquids, water will do! Just make sure the bottle is always full. You can also do this yourself, be careful to not fill the bottle after driving long distances as the cap might be hot and you will burn yourself.

6. The battery:

This is probably the area are where you will need a hand. Try not to let a friend or someone who is not too clued up on cars jump start the vehicle with jumper cables as you might end up blowing up and damaging the electronic components in the vehicle. Rather call the AA or your nearest dealer to assist.

Let me know what you think of my new feature and if you feel my tis are helpful.

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