Got from MSN.ca
1. The Transmission - This piece of equipment is vital to your vehicle's ability to operate properly, and vastly expensive to fix! (Mine was $3,000!) Check your owner's manual to see when the manufacturer recommends your mechanic should check to see if the transmission fluid needs topping up or replacing completely.
2. Brakes - Beyond checking the brake pad depth and thickness of the rotors or drums, the calipers themselves might need a clean-up after a salty winter. Also, brake fluid itself can get dirty if water leaks into the lines, and that means it'll need to be changed. Water degrades the brakes' ability to work properly, and can damage components internally.
3. Fuel System - Fuel is supposed to cool the pump in your tank, and with less fuel, there's less cooling, which puts greater stress on the pump. That shortens its life, which means early replacement. Also, with less fuel in the tank, you can get condensation building up, which can contaminate the fuel. At the garage, have your mechanic clean out your fuel system, which should also un-gunk the fuel injectors in your car's engine. And check that the fuel filter isn't clogged either.
4. Power Steering - Most power steering systems use a specialized fluid that doesn't take kindly to water. Having it checked, cleaned and refilled will make sure that you won't have any surprises. Check your service manual for a good idea of when to start asking about having it looked at.
5. Timing Belt - Most cars use a timing belt, which helps keep your motor running smoothly and with the correct power and fuel usage. Check your manual for the service interval. On some cars, it's as little as 85,000 km in 'severe duty' areas, while others are closer to 200,000 km. This might be one of the pricier regular maintenance items, but if it fails first, your wallet will hurt 10 times as much.
6. Wheel Alignment - Is your steering wheel not pointed straight when your car is? Take a few good whacks from curbs and potholes this year? Does your car feel like it wants to get frisky with the center divider? Chances are your wheels are out of alignment. It's a good thing to have checked once or twice a year. And it'll help with fuel economy too.
7. Air Filters - There are at least two air filters in your car. One is under the hood where it prevents dust and dirt from getting into your engine. The other is behind the dash where it prevents dust and dirt from getting into your car's cabin. Have them both changed regularly to keep everybody breathing properly. And while we're there, have your air conditioning system checked and topped up with fresh refrigerant if needed.
8. Coolant System - As antifreeze ages, it becomes acidic, and can eat its way through hoses and seals. Flushing the system with fresh coolant will help. Also, have your thermostat checked to see that it's operating properly, and replace if needed.
9. Belts and Hoses - Beyond the timing belt, there are plenty of other rubber belts and hoses around your engine that need to be checked for wear and cracking. Having them replaced at the first sign rough conditions will save you grief in the long run: $20 for a fan belt costs far less than a tow when it breaks.
10. Lights - Your vehicle's lights are its first line of defence against other drivers. Your headlights allow you to see things when it's dark, your brake lights tell people that you're slowing down, and your turn signals - providing you actually use them - let others know you're moving over or turning soon.
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