6 Essential Car Fluids and How to Check Them

How to Check Essential Fluids in Your Car

From windshield wiper fluid to brake fluid, you can check these 6 essential car fluids without leaving your garage. If you’re not sure when to check your car fluids, we recommend aiming for a schedule of once per month. Wait until the engine has cooled for at least 30 minutes, so you can work comfortably. Then pop the hood, and take inventory.

Motor Oil

• Purpose of motor oil: Lubricates the moving parts to prevent friction, overheating, and damage
• When to change motor oil: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or every six months
• How to check motor oil:Check your oil by looking for the dipstick underneath the hood. Pull it out, wipe it off, re-insert it into the reservoir. Notice the oil level, texture, and smell.

Brake Fluid

• Purpose of brake fluid: Transfers the force from the brake pedal to the braking system
• How often to replace brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or two years.
• How to check brake fluid: Locate the clear brake fluid reservoir underneath your car’s hood. The fluid level should reach the “Full” marking.

Engine Coolant

• Purpose of engine coolant: Transfer and optimize the heat of the powertrain
• When to replace engine coolant: Every 50,000 miles.
• How to check engine coolant: Locate the engine coolant reservoir underneath your car’s hood. The fluid level should reach the “Full” marking.

Transmission Fluid

• Purpose of transmission fluid: Lubricates the bearings to allow for smooth gear shifts
• How often to replace transmission fluid: Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles
• How to check transmission fluid: Pull the transmission fluid dipstick out of the reservoir, wipe it clean, re-insert it. Look at the fluid level and color. If your transmission is sealed and you don’t have a dipstick, schedule a service appointment.

Power Steering Fluid

• Purpose of power steering fluid: Creates a link between the steering wheel and wheels of your car
• When to replace power steering fluid: When you have difficulties steering the car or as needed
• How to check power steering fluid: Locate the the power steering fluid reservoir under your car’s hood. It might be marked with a steering wheel symbol. Make sure the fluid reaches the marked level.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

• Purpose of windshield wiper fluid: Helps the windshield wipers clear away any dust, debris, or moisture on your windshield
• When to replace windshield wiper fluid: When your sprayers don’t produce fluid or as needed
• How to check windshield wiper fluid: Open the hood and look for the reservoir with a windshield washer symbol on the cap. Add more fluid until it reaches the “Full” line.

Learn More About Essential Car Fluids with Mtn. View Chevrolet

Now you know how to check the essential fluids in your car and when to check your car fluids. But if you still have any questions about your brake fluid or motor oil, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team can help you find refills at our parts department, and we can always take care of your maintenance needs in Chattanooga. We’re just a short drive away from Ooltewah and Athens, so schedule your next appointment today.