Six Essential Car Fluids and How to Check Them

Long after you’ve left Transwest Ford, you can count on us to help you keep your vehicle running in top condition on the streets of Scottsbluff. One essential part of maintaining your vehicle is checking essential car fluids. What are the six essential car fluids, and how do you check them? Learn how to check essential fluids in your car here, including brake fluid and windshield wiper fluid. If you need help, schedule a service appointment. 

Essential Car Fluids

Perhaps you already know some of the essential car fluids and have an idea of when to check car fluids. But if you don’t, Transwest Ford can help. While there are many crucial fluids in your vehicle, these are the six most essential car fluids:

• Motor oil
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Engine coolant
• Windshield wiper fluid
• Power steering fluid

How To Check Essential Fluids in Your Car

We recommend you check your owner’s manual for more information on how to check essential fluids in your car. Still, our service team near Alliance explains when to check car fluids and how to do it below. 

Engine Oil

Engine oil is vital because it lubricates the moving parts in your vehicle’s engine and keeps you moving on your Torrington travels. In most newer model vehicles, motor oil should be replaced around every 7,000 to 10,000 miles depending on the type of car you drive and your driving habits. Check your oil once a month. You’ll find your dipstick underneath the hood, and most dipsticks have clearly marked areas that show you where the level should fall. 

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid lubricates many moving parts in your braking system and can sometimes collect debris. You should replace your brake fluid about every 30,000 miles or two years, whichever happens first. Most vehicles have an opaque brake fluid container underneath the hood that shows the brake fluid level. 

Engine Coolant

Your engine generates a tremendous amount of heat while driving. The cooling system needs coolant to keep your engine at the optimal operating temperature and prevents overheating. Engine coolant replacement should happen every 50,000 miles, but check your coolant once a month. The coolant is located in the coolant reservoir underneath the hood. Never check your coolant if your engine is hot! 

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is crucial for ensuring your transmission stays cool and adequately lubricated so you can keep moving around Ogallala. Dirty transmission fluid can cause shift delays and produce annoying grinding noises. To avoid these issues, replace your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Typically, you can check your transmission fluid with a dipstick beneath the hood, but some transmissions are sealed and can only be inspected by a service technician with the correct tools.

Power Steering Fluid

Your power steering system provides steering assistance, so you don’t struggle to steer your vehicle manually. Your power steering system needs fluid to operate smoothly. If your power steering is malfunctioning, it may be a good idea to check your power steering fluid or make a service appointment at Transwest Ford.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

You need clear visibility to stay safe on your Scottsbluff drives. Windshield wiper fluid helps clean your windshield so you can see better. Replace it as needed. If you try to spray washer fluid on your windshield and nothing happens, you probably need to add more liquid to your washer fluid reservoir under the hood. There’s usually a reservoir with a windshield washer symbol. Simply peek inside to check the fluid level.

Transwest Ford Can Check Your Essential Car Fluids

Now that you know how to check essential fluids in your car, trust Transwest Ford for all your auto service needs. Browse our service specials and contact us today. We’re always at your service!