There are a great number of fluids in a car, from those that are essential to the car and must be regularly changed and maintained – like oil – to those that are merely helpful or convenient, like windshield washer fluid. If you properly change and manage the essential fluids of your car, you’ll substantially increase your cars operation and longevity.
The first and most essential fluid of a car is its oil. Oil is not only responsible for lubricating the moving parts, but it’s also a major player in reducing heat and moving it away from the engine. Many people believe that the secret to getting incredible longevity from your car is frequent, near obsessive oil changes. Most recommendations run from changing the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, if you reduce that to every 1,500 to 2,000 miles, you may find that your car comfortably runs for 200,000 miles or more, with minimal replacement of the major (read: expensive) parts of the car.
You check the car’s oil level using a dipstick. Everyone who owns a car should know how to do this and should do it regularly. Check not only the level of the oil, but also the quality of the oil. If the oil seems black, dirty and thick, it’s probably overdue for a change. When in doubt, change the oil – your car’s engine will thank you.
In addition, make sure that the oil filter is replaced when the oil is changed. In general, use the type of oil specified by your car manufacturer – your owner’s manual should have specific recommendations both for usual conditions and for unusual conditions, such as extreme heat or cold. If possible, upgrade to synthetic oil. It’s a little more expensive, but it’s much more effective and long-lasting that traditional petroleum-based oil.
The next essential fluid is brake fluid, which is instrumental to the proper functioning of your brakes. Your brake system uses hydraulics, so that when you depress the brake on your car, the fluid is compressed and helps cause the friction which stops your car. Too little fluid equals too little compression, which results in longer stopping distances or perhaps no stopping at all. Check your brake fluid when you check all other necessary auto fluids.
If you notice an issue with your brakes, such as soft brakes – where the brakes go closer than usual to the floor before the car stops – or if you find you need to pump your brakes, you may be low on fluid or have air in your brake lines. Brake fluid seldom needs to be replaced, but it does happen, and should only be done by a trained professional who can evaluate your entire brake system.
Coolant is the next essential fluid on our list. Coolant helps dissipate the heat generated by your engine. You should check the level only when the engine is cold – this is a pressurized system and if you attempt to open the radiator when the car is hot, you can receive serious burns. In fact, some newer cars have safeguards in place that won’t allow the radiator to be opened if the fluid inside is hot. A simple testing device will measure the specific gravity of the liquid and let you know if you need to add additional water or coolant. Don’t think more coolant is better – coolants are manufactured to work optimally in a water and coolant mix. Always buy a quality coolant, as coolants of a lower quality are damaging to the radiator and can lead to costly repairs.
Transmission fluid differs from coolant because it has to be checked when the engine is hot and running. To be overly simplistic, transmission fluid is the oil of the transmission. Check the transmission fluid when you check other essential fluids, and add additional fluid when needed. Seldom does the transmission fluid need to be drained or changed, except in the case of major transmission repairs.
Finally, we have fluids that can improve the quality of your driving experience, the most notable of these being your windshield wiper fluid. If you live in an area where the weather is frequently cold, make sure to use a commercial preparation that won’t freeze on your windshield while you’re driving.
