Maintenance Tips
WHAT IF...?
My car won't start?
Try these 4 things first:
- Is your vehicle in another gear besides PARK?
- Check if your lights and wipers work. If so, you might just be out of gas.
- Does the engine make a clicking sound when you turn the ignition? This might be a problem with the battery. Try using jumper cables to boost your car.
- Are there no sounds when you turn your ignition? If not, your starter might be the problem.
If you've tried all these and still don't know why your vehicle won't start, give us a call and one of our Service technicians can diagnose the problem!
My vehicle is leaking?
First, determine the colouring of the leak to identify what the problem is:
Black or Dark Brown: these are engine/gear oil leaks These should be taken care of by a service specialist right away.
Green, Blue, or Orange: these are probably engine coolant. Wait until the engine is cool and check if the coolant level is below the ADD line. If so, top off the coolant and visit a service specialist as soon as is convenient.
Red: this could be a transmission or a transfer case leak. Speak to a service specialist as soon as possible to determine the issue.
Clear: this is likely a brake fluid leak, which should be brought to the attention of a service specialist right away.
Black or Dark Brown: these are engine/gear oil leaks These should be taken care of by a service specialist right away.
Green, Blue, or Orange: these are probably engine coolant. Wait until the engine is cool and check if the coolant level is below the ADD line. If so, top off the coolant and visit a service specialist as soon as is convenient.
Red: this could be a transmission or a transfer case leak. Speak to a service specialist as soon as possible to determine the issue.
Clear: this is likely a brake fluid leak, which should be brought to the attention of a service specialist right away.
My engine overheats?
Here's how to tell if your engine is overheating:
- temperature gauge is high
- temperature light is on
- steam is coming from under the hood
- unusual noise and sudden loss of power
Here's what you can do in the event of overheating if there is NO steam or loss of power:
- Turn the heater on. This will divert heat from the engine.
- Increase your distance from the vehicle ahead.
- If the first two steps do not decrease overheating, you should pull off the road. Find a safe spot. Turn off the engine and open the hood to allow heat to escape.
- Check the coolant. If it is low, fill it with coolant. If the levels are not low, you may have another problem. Contact a service specialist for assistance.
Here's what you can do in the event of an outpouring of steam and loss of power:
- Pull off the road IMMEDIATELY. Turn off the car and lift the hood to let out excess heat. Do not touch the radiator cap as it could cause a burn.
- Check the coolant after the engine has cooled. Top off if it is low or empty.
- Check the hoses. If you see a leak, you may be able to temporarily fix it with tape.
- Check the water pump drive belt. Never touch a moving belt! If it is damaged, you'll need to call a service specialist.
- Call roadside assistance or drive to a repair shop (if it is safe to do so).