Like most people, you don't think about fluids until there's a problem. And by then, it's often too late. Your car needs a variety of essential fluids to run properly. When they're not maintained, your vehicle will suffer the consequences. This post will discuss five key fluids to keeping your car running smoothly.
1) Engine Oil
It is one of the essential fluids in your car. It lubricates and cools the engine and also helps clean it. It breaks down and becomes less effective with time, so it needs to be changed regularly. Most mechanics recommend changing your car's engine oil every 3,000 miles or so. However, newer vehicles with synthetic oil may go longer between changes.
If you don't replace your engine oil regularly, it can cause serious damage to your engine. Engine oil is essential for keeping your car running smoothly and safely.
2) Coolant
Coolant, also known as antifreeze, helps to keep your engine from overheating. It circulates and absorbs heat, then releases it into the air. If your car runs short of coolant, it can overheat very quickly and cause serious damage to the engine. Coolant should be changed regularly, just like engine oil.
It's essential to look into your car manual to see what type of coolant is best for your car. Some cars require a particular type of coolant that can only be found at a dealership or an auto parts store.
3) Brake Fluid
Brake fluid allows you to stop your car when you press the brake pedal. It's a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes themselves. Brake fluid can become contaminated with time and needs to be changed. If your brake fluid is dirty, it can cause your brakes to feel spongy and not work as well.
4) Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is a mixture of water and alcohol that helps to clean your windshield while you're driving. It's stored in a reservoir under your hood, and you can usually see the level through a clear plastic tube. When the level gets low, it's time to add more. You can buy windshield washer fluid at any automotive store. Windshield washer fluid is important because it helps you see clearly while driving.
5) Transmission Fluid
It's a hydraulic fluid that helps lubricate and cool the moving parts in your transmission. It's essential to look into your transmission fluid level regularly because it can cause your transmission to overheat or break down if it gets too low. You can usually find the dipstick for checking the transmission fluid level near the engine on the transmission side.
There you have it - five essential fluids that make your car run. Be sure to check them regularly and top them off as needed to keep your car running smoothly. If you're ever unsure about something, don't hesitate to bring it to our dealership service center at Patriot Subaru, serving North Attleborough, MA, and let our certified car mechanics take a look. They can help you figure out what's going on and get your car back in tip-top shape in no time. Schedule an appointment now!
