Since even simple maintenance jobs usually require seeing into dark, cramped spaces, you should have an LED flashlight or, better yet, an LED headlamp in your roadside emergency kit. The following outlines three common car maintenance tasks that are made easier with an LED headlamp.
Check Fluid Levels
When checking your vehicle's fluid levels, be sure to park on level ground so that you can get an accurate reading. Coolant levels should always be checked when the engine is cold; you could be severely burned by hot steam if you remove the radiator cap from a hot engine. To find the coolant tank, shine your LED flashlight onto the largest plastic tank under the hood. It should have a greenish tint.
Brake fluid is often in a small white container, on the wall of the engine compartment closest to the driver's side of the cab. Shine your headlamp on the brake fluid reservoir to locate the level markings that identify how high the surface of the fluid should be.
Automatic transmission fluid is often checked with the motor warm and recently shut off, and some need to be checked with the engine running. If it's not specified on or near the dipstick, consult your owner's manual or a mechanic for the proper procedure beforehand. Checking a dipstick generally requires two hands, so an LED headlamp is handy if you need to do this in less than ideal lighting conditions.
Be sure to add the correct fluid to the correct reservoir. They should be labeled, but check your owner's manual or ask a professional when in doubt.
Change the Oil
When changing your vehicle's oil, it is again important to park the car on a flat surface and allow the motor to cool down. Jack the front of the car up or use wheel ramps to elevate it enough to get underneath. Secure it with jack stands. Make sure the car is in park, set the emergency brake, and block the wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
Find the oil pan underneath the motor. You'll want an LED headlamp for this; it'll be dark and you'll need both hands. Place an oil drain pan under the drain plug. Unscrew the plug and allow the oil to drain out; this may take several minutes.
Remove the oil filter. Lubricate the gasket of the new filter with a couple drops of fresh oil, and fill the filter about 2/3 of the way with clean oil. Screw the new filter on and replace the drain plug.
Remove the oil fill cap from the top of the motor and add the new oil. Consult your manual for the proper type and amount. Keep checking the dipstick to see where the level is at, to avoid overfilling. Replace the cap.
Check Tire Pressure
To check your car's tire pressure, you will need a tire gauge and possibly an extra light. Checking tire pressure usually requires both hands, so an LED headlamp may be a better option than a flashlight if you need to do this by yourself or in a dark location.
Remove the cap from the valve stem. Push the opening of the tire gauge onto the threads hard enough that the air stops rushing out and check the reading. The manufacturer's maximum recommended pressure, or PSI should be printed on the side-wall of the tire.
Improper maintenance can be dangerous, so if you're unsure about any task, consult a mechanic first.
