Engine Fluids: What You Need and When to Replace Them

Just like a normal functioning human being our cars need fluids to keep them running. Like the human person each fluid plays a different role to keep your car running right. Imagine these fluids don’t exist? How painful it can be? Here are 5 fluids to look after to maintain your car in good condition.

Engine Oil

This is the most well-known fluid of your car. The moving parts inside the engine needs a lubricant coating for smoother movement and protects the gears from rust. You can check your engine oil level by driving your car in a short distance then having a full stop wait for about 5mins to cool it down and check the oil level. You can check the level by looking under the hood, you will notice a dip stick in your main engine. It is commonly white or yellow color for visibility. Pull out the dip stick and you will notice the oil line. The oil line tells you the normal and the critical level of the oil level and if it seems low, you may have to refill it. Just remember to check to buy the oil specific to your car engine.

Radiator Fluid

This fluid maintains the temperature of your car preventing it from overheating. There’s also a gauge in your dashboard to check your car’s temperature. This should be checked after you have driven your car. The cap of the radiator is commonly found in the middle front of the car but just make sure when you open it to use a rag or cloth covering your hands as the fluid is pressurized remember to prioritize safety. The fluid usually fills the radiator up to the top so if you don’t see that sign you may add a little bit more.

Transmission Fluid

The transmission fluid lubricates you gear transmission in changing gears. To check for transmission fluid this also can be check via dip stick but not the engine one as it is different. There is also an oil line to check the level and if its running low, you can add more. In addition to this fluid you may take note of the color of the oil, a normal looking transmission oil is pinkish in color. If it is darker or has a burnt smell you may consider change your oil.

Brake Fluid

The brake fluid is important because it helps you to slow down and stopping your car. The functions as an added pressure that helps in braking and cutting the speed when you drive. The container for the brake fluid looks like a canister under the hood. You might clean the container whenever you replace the fluid as some particles may tend to settle at the bottom. Don’t run on low brake fluid level.

Washer Fluid

The washer fluid is important because it helps you to have a better vision when you drive. If you run out of washer fluid, there are formulated ones that you can buy in auto shops they are better. Don’t rely on ordinary soap and water because it is not designed to wash road grime and grease that may come into your windshield when you drive.

It is always important to maintain your car and knowing your always in good running condition every time you travel with all the right levels of engine fluid at ease. Don’t take risk of running your car unmaintained as you put your life and other’s in danger.