Coolant

Never open your radiator cap when the engine is hot or when the engine is still running. Wait until the radiator has completely cooled before removing the cap.

You can check the level by either opening up the radiator cap or checking the level in the overflow reservoir. The reservoir is a plastic container at the side of the radiator, with a hose connecting the two. It serves as a receptacle for excess radiator coolant to flow into when it expands when hot.

If the fluid level comes near the top of the radiator or in between the maximum and minimum line in the reservoir, it’s fine. If the level is low, you will need to top up with a 50/50 mixture of water and coolant.  

Expectedly, there are some notable trade-offs. Like not having the bright yellow hue, the 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, twin exhaust pipes... the whole nine yards that Suzuki added onto the standard Swift to create the Sport's look.

Brake fluid

On newer cars, you can usually check brake fluid level without removing the cap on the master cylinder by looking through the translucent plastic reservoir.

Like the transmission, the braking system is a sealed network. It is normal for the brake fluid level to gradually decrease as the brakes wear. It is not necessary for the level to hover around the maximum mark. But if it gets repeatedly low on fluid, you might have a leaky braking system at hand.

To add brake fluid, wipe the cylinder free of dust and debris, as you do not want any of that to find its way into the brake fluid. Avoid getting water in the braking system at all costs.

Battery water

Some cars have what is called a maintenance-free battery which is sealed and doesn’t need refilling. If you car is using the traditional battery with six cells, it will need occasional refilling. Fill the battery cells with distilled water, which is without the contaminants and trace elements that can cause a corrosive buildup around the battery terminals.

Windscreen washer fluid

You never know when you will need to activate your windscreen wipers on a dry day to clear the windshield of dust and dirt, so don’t forget to fill up the reservoir. It's usually located in the engine compartment underneath the windshield and looks similar to the coolant overflow reservoir. However, they will be labelled appropriately to distinguish one from the other.