5 types of automotive fluids, the level of which should bechecked regularly

In order not to become a frequent guest at a car service, you need to take care of your car daily. One of the simplest conditions that any driver can fulfill is to regularly check the level and quality of liquids in the car. This simple measure will help maintain the car in good condition.

1. Engine oil

Changing engine oil is usually one of the first skills that novice drivers learn. The verification process is very simple: turn off the engine, open the hood, find the oil dipstick, remove it, wipe it, insert it back and remove again to determine the oil level.

If there is enough oil, you can continue to operate the car.If the level is low, replenish the amount of oil. The frequency of oil replenishment depends on the condition and age of the vehicle. If you think that the car consumes too much oil, you should contact a car service and solve this problem together with a car mechanic.

How often should I check the engine oil level?

Previously it was recommended to check it every time after refueling the car, but now it is enough to do it once a month.

How often do I need to change engine oil?

The frequency of engine oil change depends on the condition,make and age of the car. Information on how often to change engine oil can be found in the user manual (manufacturer's recommendations).

2. Transmission fluid

The transmission fluid level is checked in the same way as the engine oil level. True, in this case, the engine must be turned on. Unlike engine oil, transmission fluid is part of a closed system, so the oil level should never be low. If you find that the level is low, you need to contact a car mechanic. It is checked not only the level of the transmission fluid, but also its quality: the fluid should be red and not have a burning smell. If the liquid is brown and / or burning smell, replace it.

How often do I need to check the condition of the transmission fluid?

Monthly.

How often do I need to change transmission fluid?

Usually after a run of 80,000 - 160,000 km.

3. Coolant(antifreeze)

The coolant protects the vehicle from overheating, so its level must not be allowed to be low. The level of coolant in the radiator is checked with the engine turned off and cooled. If the liquid level is low,replenish its amount. Remember that you can add fluid that is similar to the one already in the radiator.

How often do I need to check the coolant level?

At least twice a year - before the onset of the summer and winter season.

How often do I need to change the coolant?

Once every 2-3 years.

4. Brake fluid

The brake fluid reservoir is located under the hood, on the driver's side. Its level can be checked by simply inspecting the tank from the outside. Brake fluid must never be low. You should check the quality of the liquid: it should be golden brown. If the color of the liquid is brown, it is time to replace it.

How often do I need to check the brake fluid level?

When replacing engine oil.

How often should brake fluid be replaced?

Once every 2 years.

5. Power steering fluid

To check the level of this fluid, you just need to open the hood and find the reservoir. The fluid level for the power steering is usually not low, so if you find that the level has dropped, you should bring the car to a car service to find a leak. Kindly visit this link for useful reference: oil in coolant

How often do I need to check the power steering fluid level?

Once a month.

How often do I need to change the power steering fluid?

After a run of 80,000 km or never. Typically, the user guide recommends regularly replenishing the amount of power steering fluid. However,nothing is said about emptying the tank and completely replacing the fluid. If your car owner’s manual says nothing about this, you should not worry about replacing this fluid.