HOW TO KNOW WHEN FLUIDS NEED REPLACING IN YOUR VEHICLE

Auto Select • July 16, 2024
An illustration of the inside of a car with the words car fluids

Your car is an important part of your daily life. It should be maintained properly. Besides gasoline, there are several fluids in your car that perform different functions to keep your car running smoothly. The six main fluids, when checked and replaced regularly, are vital to your car’s efficiency, longevity, and performance.


DIFFERENT TYPES OF FLUIDS FOR YOUR CAR

1.  BRAKE FLUID

It’s obvious that the importance of highly functioning brakes is essential to road safety. A vehicle’s brake system needs brake fluid to function properly. The fluid level should be towards the top and should be a light brown or yellow color. If it looks dark or muddy, it should be replaced.


2.  COOLANT

Coolant (or antifreeze) is usually a bright neon yellow or green color and serves a dual purpose. The radiator inside of your car keeps your car from overheating, which is all made possible by the coolant. The second purpose of the coolant is to provide all passengers with cool air conditioning when outside temperatures are too high and/or uncomfortable.


3.  MOTOR/ENGINE OIL

Usually regarded as the most important fluid for your car after gasoline, motor oil keeps all your car’s engine parts lubricated and running efficiently. It is usually an amber or yellow color and should be clear. If the motor oil is dark, thick, or has particles in it, it is essential that you have your motor oil changed, otherwise your vehicle risks having a major issue down the line.


4.  POWER STEERING FLUID

If you drive a modern car, chances are, you have power steering. To keep your vehicle’s steering adaptable and responsive, make sure your power steering fluid levels are checked and in good shape.


5.  TRANSMISSION FLUID

Your car’s transmission is made up of gears, clutches, and valves that allow you to shift gears. Transmission fluid keeps everything lubricated in the transmission allowing you to seamlessly go from park to reverse to drive, and back again in any order.


6.  WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID

Probably the least “vital” of all the fluids, windshield washer fluid may not help your car’s performance as vitally, but it is important for the driver to maintain visibility and ensure the safety of all passengers and other motorists. This fluid is specially formulated to get rid of all the bugs, dirt, and grime that can accumulate on your car’s windshield.


FLUID CHANGING SCHEDULE


You should not ignore changing or refilling your vehicle’s fluids. Here is a quick guide on when to check and replace the fluids in most cars:


EVERY 3 YEARS OR 30,000 MILES (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST)

  • Brake Fluid
  • Coolant
  • Power Steering Fluid
  • Transmission Fluid


EVERY 3,000 - 6,000 MILES

  • Motor/Engine Oil


AS NEEDED

  • Windshield Washer Fluid



This month at Auto Select, we are offering $25 off any fluid service if you're vehcile is due for service.

A coupon that says $ 25 off any fluid service