After you have purchased your new or used car from your St. Louis Toyota Dealer, Spirit Toyota, here is part II of the blog How to maintain your Toyota;

Manual Transmission;

1. Usually done with the engine OFF, you may have to get under the car and remove the plug with a wrench.
2. Put your finger into the opening and feel for fluid, if you feel it on the tip of your finger it is probably at an adequate fill level.
3. Note the color, if it is dark or black, consult your owners’ manual to check to see if it is time for a fluid change.
4. NOTE, many new cars have a hydraulic clutch system which needs brake fluid as well as transmission fluid to keep the gears lubricated, check under the hood and look for a plastic reservoir, smaller than the brake fluid reservoir, once you have found it, remove the lid and check the level which should be at least 2/3 full, if not fill it to the line that says “full.” With brake fluid

Radiator/Cooling System;

****Never check your radiator system when the engine is hot

1. Your engine should be cool or lukewarm but not cold when you check the cooling system
2. Locate the radiator cap in the very front and in the center of the radiator, remove it.
3. Look to see if you can visually view the fluid level and if not top it off with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water
4. Check the fluid in the reservoir or overflow plastic container located to the side of the radiator, it has a hose connected the radiator, open the lid and make sure it is about two thirds of the way filled to the top.

Brakes;

The brake fluid should not have a problem with being repeatedly low unless there is a leak because it is a sealed system.

1. Locate the brake fluid reservoir in the engine compartment, check your owners’ manual if you are unsure of where it is located.  Remove the lid and make sure it is at least two thirds full, if not fill to the “full” line with brake fluid.
2. Make sure NOT to get water in the brake system at all costs, it is advisable to check the brake fluid in a garage or someplace that provides protection from rain.