5 Fluids you should check to keep your car running smoothly
Fluids are the lifeline of an engine. Keeping
a check on them is one of the many things that keep your vehicle running
smoothly. It empowers your vehicle and keeps the repair cost low.
Even if you don’t know much about the inner
workings of a car, don’t worry! Anyone who can pop the bonnet will be able to
check the fluid levels, it is that easy.
Here are some pointers to give you a basic
knowledge of the different types of fluids, what they do and how to check their
levels.
Engine
Oil
It is the most important fluid that lubricates
the different components of an internal combustion engine. It disperses heat
and keeps the working parts clean. Checking for an oil change is the first
thing that people learn after getting a car. All you need to do is lift the
bonnet, locate the oil dipstick, pull it out and wipe it down. Repeat the
process and you will find your oil level. There are indicators to mark a ‘safe’
level. If your oil is within the marked level, you are good to continue. If
not, just add more oil until you reach the level.
With newer vehicles, it is safe to check your
oil level every month. However, if your car has crossed the 100,000-mile mark,
you should check it every time you get an oil refill.
Transmission
Fluid
This fluid makes the gears work properly
without causing friction. Checking transmission
fluid is also very easy; just keep the car running while you do it. The
method is the same as checking engine oil.
If your transmission fluid is running low,
take your car for a refill immediately . The fluid should be red in colour and
odourless; you find it brown with a burnt smell, it should be replaced ASAP.
Check on your transmission fluid once every month, along with your engine oil
check.
Coolant
This fluid is also known as antifreeze and is
sometimes a mix of water and antifreeze. It keeps the engine cool and is stored
in the radiator. It transfers the heat in the combustion cycle and duly
distributes it through the cooling system of the engine.
It is very easy to determine whether you are
running low on coolant. Pop your hood and remove the radiator cap. If your
coolant is below the clean line indicator, it means you are running low and it
is time for a refill. Coolant should be replaced every 2-3 years and the level
should be checked annually.
Power
steering
As the name suggests, this fluid helps to
seamlessly operate on the steering wheel. If at any point you hear strange
creaking noises coming from your wheel, it is a clear indication of time to
change the power steering fluid.
In order to check the level, lift your bonnet
and find the reservoir. Normally, just glancing at the reservoir will let you
know the level. This type of fluid does not usually drop below level too
easily; still you should check it every month. It is not a bad idea to go in to
a mechanic for a leak check if noises from your steering wheel bother you.
Brake
Fluid
If ever your brakes feel even slightly off,
you should immediately check on your brake fluid. This fluid is part of a
closed system and therefore it should never be low. You should always make sure
your brake fluid is clean. You can check it easily as the reservoir is usually
transparent and is located on the driver’s side of the car. The colour of clean
brake fluid should be a nice golden yellow. If you find the colour to be brown,
this means it is time to replace it.
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