Regular car maintenance is an absolute must if you want to prolong the life of your vehicle, and also stay safe on the road. But taking care of your car goes further than just ensuring it looks spick and span. It involves making sure the essential car fluids are topped up regularly. So, which ones are they?
1. Engine Oil
Inside your vehicle, there are many moving parts that need to stay lubricated. And, with all the moving parts in your engine, it is no wonder that engine oil needs to be changed regularly. Engine oil is the most essential of all car fluids. And if you’re not road-testing your car just yet, check the level of your engine oil at least twice a month.
2. Transmission Fluid
Similar to the engine oil, transmission fluid will ensure that gears are lubricated properly and do not overheat. Transmission fluid also helps to keep the speed control mechanism in place. Just like the engine oil, it is recommended that you check your transmission fluid level at least twice a month.
3. Coolant
As the name suggests, coolant helps to cool down the engine. The contact between metal parts can result in excessive heat if there isn’t enough coolant to counteract this heat buildup. Cooling your car helps to prevent damage to vital car parts and components.
4. Brake fluid
Brake fluid keeps your car’s brakes working well. It prevents the friction caused by metal surfaces rubbing against each other, which may result in premature wear of the discs and pads. Because brake fluid is an essential ingredient in your car’s braking system, you should inspect it at least twice a year to ensure it is at the correct level.
5. Power steering fluid
While many modern cars use electric steering systems, there are still plenty of vehicles on the road equipped with traditional power steering. Power steering fluid ensures that your power steering fluid level is at its optimum level. When the power steering is not working properly, it can be troublesome to manoeuvre your car properly, which can cause accidents and other problems on the road.
6. Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid is in charge of keeping the windows in your car clean. You use windshield washer fluid when you want to wipe off the windshield after washing it with your wipers. If you notice that your windshield washer fluid is low, you will want to top it up.