How to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly: Essential Fluid Level Checks

Regularly checking your car’s fluid levels is crucial for maintaining its performance and preventing potential issues. Learn how to check and maintain motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and coolant levels with this comprehensive guide from Arizona Car Sales in Mesa!

Maintaining your car’s fluid levels is crucial to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.

Here’s a guide to help you check and maintain these vital fluids.

Fluid Level Checks: Essential for Car Maintenance

1. Motor Oil

Why It’s Important: Motor oil lubricates engine parts, reduces friction, and prevents wear. It also helps in cooling the engine and cleaning away contaminants.

How to Check:

• Locate the dipstick, usually marked with a bright handle.
• Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then pull it out again to check the oil level.
• The oil should be within the marked range on the dipstick.

How Often: Check every month and change it every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your vehicle’s requirements.

2. Transmission Fluid

Why It’s Important: Transmission fluid lubricates the moving parts of your car’s transmission and helps with gear shifts.

How to Check:

• Locate the transmission fluid dipstick (often near the back of the engine).
• Check the fluid level with the car running and in park.
• Ensure the fluid is within the recommended levels and not discolored.

How Often: Check monthly and replace as per your vehicle’s manual, typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.

3. Power Steering Fluid

Why It’s Important: This fluid ensures smooth steering and prevents damage to the steering system.

How to Check:

• Locate the power steering fluid reservoir.
• Check the level against the markings on the reservoir.

How Often: Check monthly and top off as needed.

4. Brake Fluid

Why It’s Important: Brake fluid transfers force into pressure, allowing your brakes to function properly.

How to Check:

• Locate the brake fluid reservoir (often clear and marked with minimum and maximum lines).
• Ensure the fluid level is within the recommended range.

How Often: Check monthly and replace every two years.

5. Coolant

Why It’s Important: Coolant prevents your engine from overheating and protects it against corrosion.

How to Check:

• Check the coolant level in the overflow tank when the engine is cold.
• Ensure the coolant level is between the minimum and maximum marks.

How Often: Check monthly and replace every 30,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Maintaining proper fluid levels is essential for the longevity and performance of your vehicle. If you’re unsure about any step, the Arizona Car Sales service team is here to help. Schedule a maintenance check today to keep your car running smoothly!

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