Fall Car Care: Essential Fluids to Check
Fall is one the best times to check your vehicle's fluids, with the coldest days ahead and hottest months are behind. Extreme temperatures can take a toll on your car, increasing the likelihood of a breakdown, which may lead to an expensive repair. Your fall car care routine should include checking these seven key fluids.
Engine oil is to your vehicle what blood is to the body: a vital fluid that allows both to function optimally. Engine oil must be changed regularly. Consult your owner’s manual or with your professional auto repair shop for the correct type of oil and change interval. While checking your vehicle oil dipstick at the beginning of fall is a good idea, inspecting the fluid on a monthly basis throughout the year won’t hurt.
Antifreeze/Coolant - the role of antifreeze/coolant is to prevent engine failure as a result of overheating:
Brake Fluid -if brake fluid in the brake reservoir is below the minimum or “MIN” line, filling it to just below the “MAX” line is the proper course of action. Old or insufficient fluid can make it more difficult for your vehicle to stop. Not only should you determine brake fluid level and age, but keep an eye out for a leak. If a leak is present, the brake pedal could travel straight to the floor when depressed. Spotting a leak is relatively simple: look for pale yellow fluid underneath your car.
Power Steering Fluid - A functioning power steering pump makes it possible to turn the steering wheel with ease. Power steering fluid flows from the fluid reservoir to the pump, but if it’s leaking or low, you’ll have trouble turning the wheel. Flush out the old fluid if it appears gritty, and top off as needed otherwise. Difficulty with steering in the winter months - especially here in New England can result in safety issues.
Washer Fluid - Although certainly not essential to your car’s operation, having sufficient washer fluid, as well as working windshield blades, is essential for seeing the road ahead. A winter blend will keep your fluid from freezing when you need it in frigid temperatures. Top it off and replace your front and rear blades as needed. Consider using winter washer fluid which contains de-icer, but discontinue use in the warmer months.
Engine oil is to your vehicle what blood is to the body: a vital fluid that allows both to function optimally. Engine oil must be changed regularly. Consult your owner’s manual or with your professional auto repair shop for the correct type of oil and change interval. While checking your vehicle oil dipstick at the beginning of fall is a good idea, inspecting the fluid on a monthly basis throughout the year won’t hurt.
Antifreeze/Coolant - the role of antifreeze/coolant is to prevent engine failure as a result of overheating:
- Helps heater core: Some coolant is sent to the heater core to help keep the car warm.
- Prevents overheating: Coolant absorbs heat from the engine and transfers it to the radiator, where it can be dissipated. This helps prevent overheating, which can cause serious engine damage and costly repairs.
- Protects against freezing: Coolant helps keep the engine and radiator from freezing in cold weather.
- Lubricates moving parts: Coolant lubricates moving parts to prevent damage.
- Reduces corrosion and rust: Coolant helps protect the engine from rust and corrosion, especially in humid regions or where salt is used on the roads.
- Maintains radiator cleanliness: Coolant helps keep the radiator clean by removing contaminants that can clog the radiator and cause the engine to overheat.
Brake Fluid -if brake fluid in the brake reservoir is below the minimum or “MIN” line, filling it to just below the “MAX” line is the proper course of action. Old or insufficient fluid can make it more difficult for your vehicle to stop. Not only should you determine brake fluid level and age, but keep an eye out for a leak. If a leak is present, the brake pedal could travel straight to the floor when depressed. Spotting a leak is relatively simple: look for pale yellow fluid underneath your car.
Power Steering Fluid - A functioning power steering pump makes it possible to turn the steering wheel with ease. Power steering fluid flows from the fluid reservoir to the pump, but if it’s leaking or low, you’ll have trouble turning the wheel. Flush out the old fluid if it appears gritty, and top off as needed otherwise. Difficulty with steering in the winter months - especially here in New England can result in safety issues.
Washer Fluid - Although certainly not essential to your car’s operation, having sufficient washer fluid, as well as working windshield blades, is essential for seeing the road ahead. A winter blend will keep your fluid from freezing when you need it in frigid temperatures. Top it off and replace your front and rear blades as needed. Consider using winter washer fluid which contains de-icer, but discontinue use in the warmer months.
