How to Check Engine of Car

Step 1: Gather your tools

You will need a few basic tools to check your car’s engine:

* A flashlight
* A rag or towel
* A screwdriver
* A socket wrench
* A spark plug wrench

Step 2: Open the hood

Locate the hood release lever inside your car, usually under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Pull the lever to release the hood and then lift it up.

Step 3: Locate the engine

The engine is usually located in the front of the car, under the hood. It is a large, metal object with a number of hoses and wires attached to it.

Step 4: Check the oil level

The oil level is one of the most important things to check on your engine. Low oil can cause serious damage, so it is important to make sure it is always at the correct level.

To check the oil level, remove the oil dipstick from the engine. The dipstick is usually located near the front of the engine, and it has a yellow or red handle. Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag or towel, then reinsert it into the engine. Remove the dipstick again and check the oil level. The oil should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the dipstick.

If the oil level is low, add oil until it reaches the correct level. Be sure to use the type of oil that is recommended for your car.

Step 5: Check the coolant level

The coolant level is another important thing to check on your engine. Coolant helps to keep the engine cool, so it is important to make sure it is always at the correct level.

To check the coolant level, look for the coolant reservoir. The coolant reservoir is usually located near the front of the engine, and it has a translucent plastic tank. Check the coolant level in the reservoir. The coolant should be between the “full” and “add” marks on the reservoir.

If the coolant level is low, add coolant until it reaches the correct level. Be sure to use the type of coolant that is recommended for your car.

Step 6: Check the belts

The belts on your engine are responsible for driving various components, such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. It is important to make sure the belts are in good condition and properly tensioned.

To check the belts, use a flashlight to look for any cracks, tears, or fraying. If you find any damage, the belt should be replaced.

To check the tension of the belts, use a socket wrench or a screwdriver to loosen the tensioner pulley. Once the tensioner pulley is loose, use your fingers to push on the belt. The belt should have about 1/2 inch of play. If the belt is too tight or too loose, it should be adjusted.

Step 7: Check the spark plugs

The spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders. It is important to make sure the spark plugs are in good condition and properly gapped.

To check the spark plugs, remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs. Use a spark plug wrench to remove the spark plugs from the engine. Inspect the spark plugs for any damage, such as cracks, chips, or wear. If you find any damage, the spark plugs should be replaced.

To check the gap of the spark plugs, use a feeler gauge. The gap should be between 0.035 and 0.045 inches. If the gap is too large or too small, it should be adjusted.

Step 8: Check the air filter

The air filter is responsible for filtering the air that enters the engine. It is important to make sure the air filter is clean and free of debris.

To check the air filter, remove it from the engine. Inspect the air filter for any dirt, dust, or debris. If the air filter is dirty, it should be replaced.

Step 9: Check the battery

The battery is responsible for providing power to the engine’s electrical system. It is important to make sure the battery is in good condition and properly charged.

To check the battery, use a voltmeter to measure the voltage across the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 12.6 and 13.2 volts. If the voltage is too low, the battery may need to be charged or replaced.

Conclusion

Checking your car’s engine is a simple and important task that can help you avoid costly repairs. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can check your car’s engine in just a few minutes.