What Fluids you Need to Check to Keep your Car Running Smoothly

Your car will require a considerable amount of maintenance to ensure its efficient performance. The most basic thing that a car owner can do to keep their car running smoothly is to maintain the fluids. There are at least 5 car fluids to check in your car and that you will need to examine regularly.

The huge percentage of the maintenance can be prevented and whether you have a novice or advance skill, anyone who can raise the hood can examine the condition of the fluids. Checking it on a regular basis can reduce the cost of repair and keep it running perfectly.

The 5 Types of Fluids to Check in your Car

Understanding the basic will prevent you from getting swindled in replacing it with a fluid that your car don’t require or flushing that you don’t necessarily need. You only need to know what to look and where to look. You should remember that your car is unique, but the recommendation below should be applied universally.

Engine Oil

The first thing that you may have learned about with your first vehicle is how to check the oil of your car. This process is a must in all cars and the basic process in checking your oil to see how much oil there is. It’s important to have plenty of oil in order for your car to operate with no issues.

Make sure the car is on a level surface such as a driveway or parking lot, lift the hood of the car, and locate two specific places: 1. the dipstick and 2. where you replenish the oil.  Remove the dipstick and wipe clean then insert the clean dipstick back in then remove again.  Do this a few times, checking where the oil level is and wiping clean each time.

The oil should be at least between the high and low marker on the dipstick.  In case it is not in the safe level then you will need to add more. Contingent upon the age of your vehicle, there is a possibility that you will add oil more often.

Oil should be checked at least once a month. Depending on the car manufacturer, year and model, replacing the engine oil should be conducted every 6 months.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid ensures that your car runs smoothly. Checking the transmission fluid is the same as checking the engine oil, the only difference is that you have to check it while the engine is running. Instead of checking the volume, you will need to check the quality.

To inspect the quality, it’s important to pay attention to the color of the fluid.  If your fluid is healthy, it should have a reddish-pink color; if it’s getting to the point of needing replacement, it will be brownish red. If the fluid is dark brown or black, then it’s quite possible that you will be replacing more than just your fluid.

Dark fluid with a burnt smell is bad news; in the worst case, you may even find fine metal shavings in the fluid as well. Both of those symptoms point to possible damage of the internal components. of the transmission.

Check this monthly; replacing it should be conducted between 50,000 to 10,000 miles.

Coolant

Coolant also known as antifreeze will maintain the ideal temperature of your car. A low coolant may lead to overheating. Coolant is located inside the radiator, and you can examine it by detaching the cap of the radiator once it is cool. After you remove it, you should see a line of the fluid. In case it is low, you may add more coolant. Checking should be done twice a year, and it is recommended to replace it every 2 or 3 years.

Brake Fluid

You need to make sure that your brake fluid is clean. This fluid ensures the efficiency of your brake pads when using the brake pedal. So if you notice that your brake is a little off, then you need to check your brake fluid first. The fluid should have a gold color. Brown color means that it is time for you to replace them. Replacing should be done every 2 years.

Power Steering

This fluid guarantees that you steering will be easy and smooth. In case it is low, you may hear a ‘creaking’ sound when you turn the steering wheel. You can check it simply by looking at your reservoir in the power steering system. In case it is low, you need to take them to an auto shop to look for any leak. Replacing should be done starting from 50,000 miles.

What Fluids Does a Car Need?

Keeping car fluids at their proper levels and in good condition is essential for the car’s performance. From engine oil to power steering and coolant, every car fluid has a specific as well as an important role to play in keeping things running smoothly. With regular car servicing, these fluids can be inspected and if need be replaced before any major damage can occur. So it’s always better to keep car fluid levels topped up, checked and maintained on time, ensuring your car remains safe on the roads.

Bonus:  Windshield Washer Fluid

This may seem simple, but it is quite an essential fluid that is used often.  Be sure to replace this on a regular basis.  Seasonally appropriate or year-round windshield fluids are great for winter weather or springtime pollen removal.  Having a clean windshield ensures safety and visibility while traveling on the road

A great way to remember when and how to replenish these fluids would be to create reminders or  notes in your phone so you will never miss anything. Having the fluid of your car regularly check will ensure that it will last longer.  Let the professionals at Harris Tire handle your fluid maintenance, and we will guarantee that your car will run smoothly and efficiently.

Do You Check Oil With the Car Running?

Caring for your car is an essential part of ensuring its longevity. With this in mind, checking the oil level can help you to avoid any costly repairs. It is important to note, however, that you should never check the oil when the car is running as this may cause serious damage or even burn yourself or someone else nearby.

Instead, it is always best to turn off and wait a few minutes for the engine to cool down – letting you know when it is safe to check the oil level which can be done with a dipstick or by checking the sight glass window if your vehicle has one. Always use caution when checking oil and always double-check before you depart!