The simplest car maintenance operations

11.3.1 Checking the engine oil level

1. Make sure that the car is located on a horizontal surface.

2. Remove the dipstick, wipe clean and re-insert it until it stops.

3. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. It should be between the "F" ("Full") and "L" ("Low") marks. “MIN” and “MAX” marks are also possible.

Note
Be extremely careful not to touch the radiator pipe when refilling or checking the engine oil level, because it may be heated to a temperature that can cause burns.

Figure 11.1 Marks on the dipstick.	Figure 11.2 Example of dipstick appearance.

Attention
Do not add excess engine oil, because this can lead to foaming, a sharp drop in engine pressure and, as a result, engine failure.

In case if the oil level is close to the "L" ("MIN") mark, add enough oil in order to rise it to the "F" ("MAX") mark. Do not add excess oil. Use a funnel in order to prevent oil spillage on engine components.

11.3.2 Checking the coolant level

• Do not open the radiator cap when the engine is running or is still hot. This can damage the cooling system and the engine, as well as cause serious injuries due to the outbreak of hot coolant or steam.
• Switch off the engine and wait until it cools down. Take special care while removing the radiator cap: wrap the cap with a thick cloth and slowly turn it counterclockwise until it stops. Step aside while the cooling system is being depressurized. Upon making sure that the system is depressurized, press on the radiator cap using a thick cloth, and, continuing to rotate counterclockwise, remove the cover.
• Even if the engine is turned off, do not remove the radiator cap or drain plug until the engine and radiator have cooled down. Until then, hot coolant and steam that outbreak under pressure can cause serious injury.

Attention
Temperature, engine coolant pressure and vehicle speed affect the operation of the motor (cooling fan). Sometimes it can run even when the engine is stopped. Extreme care must be taken while working near rotating fan blades in order to avoid injury. When the coolant temperature drops, the motor automatically shuts off. This is normal.

Check the condition of all cooling and heating system hoses and their connections. Replace any worn or blown up hoses.

The coolant shall be filled to the level between the "F" ("Full") and "L" ("Low") marks on the side of the cooling system expansion tank. 

In case if the level of coolant is low, refill the recommended coolant in order to provide frost and corrosion protection. Raise the level to the "F" mark, but do not add excess liquid.

11.3.3 Checking the brake fluid level

Periodically check the brake fluid level in the expansion tank. This level shall be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the side of the master cylinder expansion tank. Thoroughly clean the surface around the cap before removing the tank cap and refilling the brake fluid in order to avoid contamination of the brake fluid.

As the car mileage increases, the brake fluid level will decrease. This is due to the condition of the brake pads and is not a sign of a fault.

Attention
In case if there is a need to refill the brake fluid frequently, the car shall be checked at the service station.

Attention
The brake fluid shall be handled with care when changing or refilling it. Do not allow brake fluid to come into contact with the eyes. In case of contact, immediately rinse your eyes with plenty of running tap water. After that, it is necessary to conduct a medical examination as soon as possible.