Just got the keys to the car, now what?

**cheapdouchebag** · 20-01-2010 10:03 PM

Hello again,
just recieved the keys to my first car, JDM eg sedan vti.
previously it was owned by my old man, who only filled petrol n drove it for about half a decade, treating the engine like dirt and now its mine.
im worried that the car might stuff up on me on long distance drives eg. from dandenong to geelong

what can i do to improve the engines behaviour, and run a bit more smooth, i plan to scrap this engine when i get the cash.

thanks in advance.

EDIT: i forgot to mention, this car for more than 5 years has not been serviced (good ol honda engines) AT ALL, besides changing the oil for the first time a few weeks ago.

**CB7_OWNER** · 20-01-2010 10:07 PM

Do a "major service" asap.

includes changing all fluids
check belts for sign of wear and tear

**6thgear** · 20-01-2010 10:41 PM

yeah defo flush and change all fluids. change all filters, plugs everything. defo major service haha have fun

**grifty** · 20-01-2010 10:54 PM

heres a basic list of what you should change.

Engine oil & filter

Transmission oil, i reccomend you use OEM trans fluid for this

Fuel filter

Spark plugs and spark plug wires, also check the condition of the distributor cap and replace if nessecary

New engine coolant + coolant flush

Brake pads, also check the condition of the rotors and machine/replace if nessecary

Brake Fluid change

New wipers (Very important if you dont want nice long scratches along your windsheild!!)

Check the condition of all belts (A/C, PS, timing)

Change/top up P/S fluid

And last a few beers to relax after all that hard work

**TheSaint** · 20-01-2010 11:18 PM

use all OEM parts as well .. they are top quality =)

**cheapdouchebag** · 21-01-2010 07:39 AM

how much would it be to take it to a mechanic to servic like ultra tune, im sorta low on the cash side and i dont trust myself yet to service properly

**EK1.6LCIV** · 21-01-2010 07:55 AM

if you're low on cash, I'd prob just buy the parts and diy, not overly difficult to perform a major service in your spare time, but if you have no tools (basics come to mind, socket set, ratchet, jack, jack stands, etc)

try a repco service centre for a service

**ekcoupe** · 21-01-2010 08:40 AM

adjust the tappets made such a difference to my car

theres a diy on here on how to do it. good luck

**cheapdouchebag** · 21-01-2010 05:56 PM

Originally Posted by EK1.6LCIV

if you're low on cash, I'd prob just buy the parts and diy, not overly difficult to perform a major service in your spare time, but if you have no tools (basics come to mind, socket set, ratchet, jack, jack stands, etc)

try a repco service centre for a service

u reckon? ive had no experience with cars at all. i do have the tools cuz me old man was once a mechanic too. all ive really got is a haynes manual im scared i might stuff it up.

**grifty** · 21-01-2010 09:05 PM

you should be able to do most of the servicing by following the manual without any screw ups. If you get stuck some where just post up a thread and im sure someone on here can help you out

Heres some DIY's that should be able to help you out.

Changing your fuel filter
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread.php?t=87341

Changing your coolant
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....ine+oil+change

Changing your engine oil
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....ine+oil+change

Also when your changing the engine oil change your oil filter aswell, its located on the rear of the engine but you should have plenty of room to remove it. Also when you put in the new filter run some oil on the washer with your finger to help you tighten it more thus creating a better seal

Spark plug change
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....rk+plug+change

Power steering fluid change
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....g+fluid+change

Brake fluid change
http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/showthr...ht=brake+fluid

Front & rear brake pad change
http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....ake+pad+change

http://ozhonda.com/forum/showthread....ake+pad+change

**cheapdouchebag** · 21-01-2010 11:11 PM

Originally Posted by grifty

you should be able to do most of the servicing by following the manual without any screw ups. If you get stuck some where just post up a thread and im sure someone on here can help you out