Tips • Tools & Visuals will inform you and also help you recognize some common vehicle issues

(Above image) - This is transmission fluid draining from a transmission pan.  As you can clearly see, the fluid is red in color.  It is very important to consistently change your transmission fluid/filters.  HOWEVER, it's important to do them consistently during intervals of at least every 40 to 60 thousand miles.  If you reach 150K miles or more, do not change the fluid unless they say the fluid still has a red color in it, otherwise you can now cause slippage, hard shifting, or gear banging.  

(above image) - A torn/broken constant velocity joint boot, (CV joint boot) - The dealership will of course recommend to replace it in its entirety,  which of course boosts revenue for their parts department.  Since it has to be removed, always ask them to inspect the joint first, and provide a cost analysis regarding replacing the entire axle assembly, versus repairing it with a new boot kit.

(Above image) - Typically your spare tire is located in your trunk well area if you own a sedan or coupe vehicle.  Today, vehicles could store them under the vehicle, in the front area, (if you have a rear mid-engine). Some vehicles do not have a spare, or it's an option, or they give you a can of compressed sealant.  If you do have one, always have it inspected at least once a year, and always have the air pressure checked and filled to specification every time your tires are rotated.

(Above image) - This icon is your vehicle's low tire warning light.  In my opinion, this is one of the best safety warning to drivers that the automotive industry has implemented.  If this light appears while you're driving, do not panic and pull over in a safe parking lot, simply look at your tires to see if any appear extremely low.  If you don't need to install your spare, drive to any auto shop for assistance. This will also come on in cold weather when temperatures drop which is normal.

(Above image) - This is a screw in a tire's tread.  This incident is NOT repairable.  This screw/nail would need to be inward at least another half inch from where this screw is.  However, most dealerships will not plug any tire that has a screw/nail in the last row of treads.  They'll recommend a new tire.  At that point I'd advise you to have a tire shop further inspect it. If it's a clean insert, a half inch further in, it's pluggable, with no need for a new tire(s). 

(Above image) - This is a bulge in the sidewall of a tire.  This mostly occurs while driving over a pot hole.  This can also occur when striking a curb, or any type of low shoulder barrier, often occurring when driving around someone while they are making a left turn.  if you notice this on one of your tires, it is extremely important to replace that tire as soon as possible, (depending on tread life left, a pair may be needed).  This tire is now extremely susceptible of a blow-out occurring.