5 Important Fluids that Keep Your Car Running Smoothly

You might not give the inner workings of your vehicle much thought. Chances are, you jump in the driver's seat, start the ignition, and you're off. However, there are many parts and systems within your car that enable it to start and drive.

Your car is made of many working parts. Together they provide the function, safety, and comfort of your vehicle.

If you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come, you have to take the proper maintenance steps. When it comes to maintaining your vehicle and taking care of its parts, it seems that tires, brakes, and the transmission get all the attention.

While those are vital parts of your car to understand and give the proper care, understanding your car's fluids are just as important, and the expert technicians at Mavis Tires and Brakes are always there to help.

Why Focus on Fluids?

Think of the fluids in your car's engine as the lifeblood of your vehicle. Clean fluids at the proper levels ensure that your car works properly. Not only does maintaining fluids increase your vehicle's performance and safety, but when you keep up regular maintenance your car's fluids will help keep repair costs down.

Below are 5 important fluids that directly affect the performance and function of your vehicle.

1. Brake fluid

If you couldn't guess by the name, brake fluid keeps your brakes in top condition. Since the brake system is hydraulic, it relies on the fluid to create the pressure that causes a car to stop. So, this is an extremely important fluid to maintain, as it directly affects your safety.

Keep in mind that the brake system is a closed-off network. So, if you are low, or repeatedly get low, on brake fluid, it could be a sign you need new brakes. The fluid is a golden color, so if it's brown, that's a sign that it's time to replace it.

Generally speaking, brake fluid should be replaced every two years or 30,000 miles. However, it's a good idea to check it or have Mavis Tires and Brakes check it for you every time the oil is changed.

2. Coolant

Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze that is stored in the radiator to keep the engine cool. If you're low on coolant, your car will quickly overheat. Luckily, it's easy to determine if you're low on coolant.

Once the car is cool, some extra caution should be used when removing the radiator cap. Only remove the cap when you are confident the vehicle is cooled down, pop the hood and remove the radiator cap. If you see that the coolant is not visible in the radiator, this is an indicator that it is low. Some cars don't have a radiator cap, they have a reservoir or overflow tank. Check this to see if it is low. Most of them have lines to give you an idea of the coolant level.

Coolant needs to be replaced about every two to three years. You should check it annually, and it's a good idea to do so before summer begins and before winter. Since it's easy to see and spot the level when you go under the hood, it's not a bad idea to check it if you're there. 

Today’s vehicles have many different varieties of coolant. Be sure to check the radiator cap, overflow tank, and your owner’s manual for the proper coolant for your vehicle.

3. Engine oil

The most common maintenance care is probably an oil change. This is an important fluid to check because it keeps all the working parts within the engine lubricated and clean.

Some people aim to change their oil every 3,000 miles. However, for many cars, this isn't always necessary. Over the past few years improved technology has resulted in oils like Synthetic and Synthetic Blend. These oils better lubricate your engine and resist breaking down as often as natural oil can resulting in longer service intervals. Be sure to check the engine oil once a month, and consult your owner's manual to see when you should change your oil.

4. Power steering

Power steering fluid allows you to seamlessly maneuver the steering wheel. If you hear odd sounds when you move the steering wheel, that's a good indication you may be low on power steering fluid.

You should check the fluid about once a month. Your owner's manual will be able to tell you about your vehicle's specific needs.

Power Steering fluid is one of the most neglected fluids in vehicle maintenance. Similar to Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid should be replaced every 2 years or 30,000 miles. 

5. Transmission fluid

Transmission fluid keeps the gears in your engine running smoothly. However, just like your brakes, the fluid is located in a closed system, so, if you experience leaks, you should have it checked out immediately.

Consult your owner's manual for recommendations on when to replace your transmission fluid. To make sure your vehicle is in tiptop shape, you have to take care of your fluids or take your vehicle to your local Mavis Tires and Brakes to have your vehicle inspected.