The fluids that run through your vehicle are one of the more important things to be aware of when maintaining your vehicle.
Not only should your fluid levels be where they need to be, but the age of your fluids matter as well.
After a certain amount of time fluids can start to break down and lose viscosity, so it's always smart to keep your fluids at their best, in order to keep engine wear minimal.
Brakes and transmissions also use fluids as does the steering and radiator. Newer cars are so efficient that fluids need to be changed less often but older cars are a different story, and fluid levels should be checked more often.
This holds true no matter the type of vehicle you may drive including sedans, SUVs, crossovers, pickups and trucks.
As a rule of thumb, have your coolant level checked twice a year (pre-summer and pre-winter). The motor oil level should be checked more often, especially if you are planning a road trip. Check the brake reservoir and power steering (under the hood near the engine) every so often as well.
We can do all of this for you, without breaking your bank account. Fluid changes are relatively cheap, especially when you consider the damage that can be done if you don't maintain your vehicle's fluids.
If you see any fluids collecting underneath your vehicle, be sure to have it checked immediately. However, you may notice a puddle under your vehicle that could be condensation dripping from your car, which is not a concern. If you want to be sure, it should be checked out by a qualified auto technician.
Car Fluids:
Motor Oil
Radiator Coolant
Brake Fluid
Transmission
Power Steering
Gasoline, Fuel
Car Fluid Colors:
Brown - Motor Oil
Red - Transmission, Power Steering & sometimes Radiator
Green - Radiator Antifreeze
Blue - Windshield Wiper Fluid
Clear - Fuel, Gasoline, Condensation
DIY Tips:
Always check vehicle fluids on a level surface
Over-filling is just as bad as under-filling
Use the correct fluid as suggested by your owner's manual
Keep Your Car in Shape
We can check, change or flush any fluid in your car that requires it.
But it's not just your engine, radiator, brakes, power steering and transmission fluids that you need to think about.
Keep in mind that your A/C uses Freon, there are movable parts that may need lubrication, your windshield wiper fluid needs to be filled, and if your vehicle has been sitting a long time it may need an oil and fuel change.
Check out these helpful links on car fluids:
How to Check the Fluids in Your Car (video)
How to Check the Essential Fluids in Your Car
How to Check Fluids
