Checking Fluids
As a driver, it is essential to regularly check and maintain your vehicle to ensure optimum performance and longevity. One crucial aspect of car maintenance is checking the various fluids in the car. Fluids are crucial for the proper functioning of a car's engine, transmission, and other critical components. Regular checks and top-ups can help prevent costly breakdowns, extend the life of your car, and save you money on repairs.
There are several fluids in cars that need attention. They include engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Here is a quick rundown of each of these fluids:
Engine Oil
Engine oil lubricates the engine's internal moving parts, preventing friction and wear. It also helps keep critical engine parts clean and cool. Over time, engine oil can break down, get dirty, and lose its lubricating qualities, compromising the engine's function. This can lead to significant engine damage or malfunctions. Therefore, it is important to check the dipstick regularly and top up if necessary. You should check the oil level at least once a month and before long trips. Use the oil recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer and change it as recommended in the owner's manual.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid cools and lubricates the gears, clutches, and bearings in the transmission, ensuring proper performance and longevity. Most cars have transmission dipsticks that allow you to check the fluid level. Like engine oil, transmission fluid can break down over time, get contaminated by debris, and lose its effectiveness. Low or dirty transmission fluid can lead to overheating, wear, and eventual damage to the transmission. Therefore, it is essential to check the fluid level regularly, and some cars may require checking the fluid with the engine running and in neutral. Refer to the car's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended frequency of checking and changing the transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid helps hydraulic brakes apply pressure to the brake pads or shoes, allowing the car to stop safely. It absorbs moisture from the air over time, which can cause the fluid to degrade and become less effective. This can lead to brake failure, making it very important to regularly check and replace the brake fluid as recommended in the vehicle's owner's manual. Check the brake fluid level regularly by removing the brake fluid reservoir cap and observing the fluid level. If it is low, top-up with the recommended brake fluid type and be sure to check for leaks.
Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid is responsible for making it easier to steer the car by reducing the effort required to turn the steering wheel. It also lubricates the steering system to prevent wear and tear. Over time, power steering fluid can break down, lose its effectiveness and cause leaks. A lack of fluid can lead to difficulty turning the steering wheel and potential damage to the power steering pump and rack. Therefore, it is essential to check the power steering fluid level regularly. Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended frequency of checking and changing the power steering fluid.
Coolant
Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is responsible for maintaining the appropriate temperature range in the engine, preventing overheating and freezing. Antifreeze also protects the engine block from corrosion, which can cause leaks and damage to the engine. Over time, coolant can break down or leak, leading to overheating and engine damage. Therefore, it is essential to check the coolant level regularly and follow the recommended manufacturer's interval for changing the fluid. Check the coolant level with the engine turned off and allow it to cool down before opening the radiator cap or coolant reservoir cap to avoid hot fluid and steam burns.
The checking procedure for fluids will differ depending on the fluid being checked. However, here are some general guidelines to follow:
Step 1: Park the vehicle on level ground
To get accurate measuring results, ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface to prevent tilt errors and make the fluid levels more accurate.
Step 2: Locate the dipsticks, reservoirs, and caps
Different fluids have different checking points. Familiarize yourself with the location of each fluid you need to check. For example, the engine oil has a dipstick located near the engine, while the brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant have a transparent reservoir that can be easily located under the hood.
Step 3: Check the fluid level and appearance
After opening the dipstick or reservoir cap, check the fluid level and appearance. The fluid level should be between the high and low marks or recommended levels marked on the dipstick or reservoir, and the fluid color should be consistent with new or clean fluids. If the fluid level is low, top-up to the appropriate mark or refill as required. If the fluid is dirty or discolored, change the fluid as recommended in the owner's manual.
Step 4: Clean up spilled fluids
When filling fluids, it's common for spills to occur, especially for inexperienced drivers. Ensure you clean up any spillage to avoid any damage to the vehicle paint or increased build-up of debris on the engine's surface.
Checking fluids should be a part of your car maintenance routine. It is recommended that you check fluids every month and before long trips. A quick fluid check can save you from costly repairs, breakdowns, and give you peace of mind. Always use fluids recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer and dispose of old fluids as directed by local or national waste disposal regulations. Regular fluid checks and maintenance can help extend the life of your vehicle, protect your investment, and keep you safe on the road.