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Regularly inspecting your vehicle's fluids is the best way to keep it running at optimal performance. Your vehicle's owner manual most likely states where fluid levels should be and at what intervals they should be topped off, refilled, or flushed. Staying aware of your fluid levels and when they are approaching empty can help prevent significant damage to your car's various systems. Below is a quick guide on your vehicle's five essential fluids and how they improve your car's efficiency.
Engine Oil
Engine oil is the most frequent service, and it gets used up quickly for a reason. Motor oil is essentially a lubricant for the engine's parts. It also reduces friction and prevents corrosion. By minimizing the friction, the heat gets dispersed evenly throughout the engine. It's vital to inspect the oil because it can pick up dirt, dust, and debris over time, which will reduce its effectiveness.
Coolant/Antifreeze
Since your engine can get to scorching temperatures, it needs something else to stabilize it. Coolant is the solution, and it is a liquid mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water. This solution can absorb the engine's excess heat. In the colder months, coolant also protects your engine from freezing.
Powering Steering Fluid
Powering steering fluid is the liquid that enables your steering wheel to turn smoothly. If this fluid gets low, the steering wheel will stiffen up and be very difficult to turn. The hydraulic fluid can get contaminated as you rack up more miles, and the power steering components can wear out. You should inspect this fluid regularly!
Brake Fluid
Another hydraulic fluid that you should pay attention to is brake fluid. Without it, your vehicle would not come to a complete stop leaving you in grave danger. With usage over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air and cause its properties to degrade. If you notice issues with your brakes, you should check your brake fluid for signs of wear.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid lubricates the moving parts inside the automatic transmission, cools down the transmission, and moves energy from the engine to your wheels. The hydraulic fluid also helps you shift gears without a problem. As your vehicle runs 50K miles or more, swapping out the transmission fluid will become an important step to prepare for.
If you're due for fluid maintenance, Torque Automotive is here for you. We offer various services for domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. Please call us at (984) 205-9091 or visit our shop in Raleigh, NC, today!