Engine
Checking Engine Oil Level:
To check engine oil, park on level ground and wait until the engine has cooled down. Locate the oil dipstick, pull it out and wipe it clean, then push it all the way back in again. Wait a moment then pull it out again. Check the level of the oil. If it's between the high and low marks, the oil level fine.
Checking your coolant level:
Locate coolant reservoir. To check coolant level, wait until your engine has cooled down. Check out the 'low' and 'high' markings outside the reservoir, the level of coolant inside should be between the two. Remember, do not take the radiator cap off to check coolant levels because if the coolant system is still hot then it is still under pressure and the pressure release will burn you.
Check belts:
At the front part of your car engine there will are a series of rubber drive belts that loop around various pulleys, driving everything from the alternator to the a/c compressor. Rubber perishes, more so in extreme conditions like those found in an operating engine bay. Thus, get your timing belt and accessory drive belt checked every 40,000 km, preferably replacing it every 80,000 km.
