Getting your Car Ready to Sell
Amusing your Car

ncidentally, either of these conditions should remind you to check the fluid level indicated by the stain. You may have had these leaks for some time and run the risk of engine seizure or transmission failure.

Engine oil should be checked only after a car sits idle for a few minutes so the oil can run back into the pan and enable you to get an accurate reading.

To check the transmission oil, the engine must be running and warm. In this case, you should check the level and the color. The fluid should be red. If it is brown or orange, you may have serious problems. The reading is done with a dipstick. Refer to your owner's manual for location. If you prefer, have it checked the next time you get fuel. Finally, look under the engine for green or greenish white stains. This indicates a coolant leak. Check the coolant level. Unless your car is old, there is probably a plastic coolant tank with high and low indicator marks.

Hoses and Belts Once you have the hood up, carefully inspect all the hoses and belts. They are fairly inexpensive to replace but can cause catastrophic damage if they fail. Hoses should be firm and tightly anchored. If they are soft to the touch or badly oil-stained, change them.

Engine belts should not appear badly worn or frayed and should be properly adjusted.
Exhaust While you're peering under the car, note the condition of the exhaust system. Is it hanging by one rubber strap? Is it perforated with holes? Has it been making a great deal of noise or have you been smelling exhaust fumes inside the car? It is very possible that you have an exhaust leak of which you are unaware. Be sure to have this checked at the shop.