3 Important Fluids to Regularly Check in Your Car

Whether your vehicle is new or old, it’s important to keep it running in good shape. Along with getting regular tune-ups, you should also check your car’s fluids to prevent future damage. Read on to learn more about the fluids that keep your vehicle running and the importance of routine checkups.

Engine Oil

Engine oil is a vital component that keeps your car running. Regularly checking the oil can help you ensure that the engine is in working condition and that every part is moving smoothly. If your vehicle is low on oil, it can wreak havoc on your engine, so it’s essential to check your oil levels frequently.

If you want to check the oil yourself, wait for the engine to cool down. Pull out your car’s dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it. Now, pull it out again and use the indicators to figure out how much oil your engine has left. If your oil is at or below the minimum recommended level, you should add more as soon as possible.

Check the quality of the oil by making sure it’s slick and smooth rather than gritty. You should check its color as well. If it’s a dark color, this may indicate dirty oil that needs to be changed, and if it’s a milky color, there may be coolant leaking into your car’s engine. In comparison, new, clean oil is generally more of an amber color.

Coolant

Also known as antifreeze, your car’s coolant helps absorb the heat from the engine. It does this by dissipating the heat through the radiator to keep everything cool. When your coolant is at the optimal level, it can prevent your car from overheating.

As with engine oil, it’s best to avoid checking the coolant level until the engine has cooled down. If you have a vehicle with a coolant expansion tank, you can check the coolant level by ensuring it’s between the minimum and maximum indicators. You can also open the radiator cap to see if it’s filled to the top. Use the correct coolant for your vehicle, and let the radiator get rid of any air bubbles before you place the cap back on.

Transmission Fluid

A car’s transmission fluid cools the transmission and lubricates various moving components, including gears, clutches, and valves. When your transmission fluid is low or bad, it can make it harder to shift gears and drive.

If your car has a dipstick, turn on the engine and place the vehicle in park or neutral. Then, check the fluid and its condition. Make sure that it’s smooth and either amber or red. If it’s anything but that, there’s likely an issue that needs attention. If you want to add transmission fluid, pour it into the fill tube and shift your gears by placing your foot on the brake. Head to a mechanic if your car doesn’t have a dipstick so that they can check the fluid for you.

Staying on top of these fluids helps ensure a more optimal driving experience, so make sure to check them regularly or head to your trusted mechanic if you need help.

Image via hyundaiusa.com

Posted in Fayetteville Hyundai Service | No Comments »