Wondering what fluids keep your car in top shape? Learn what the must-check fluids are and how simple maintenance and checks can make all the difference.
Keeping up with car maintenance is essential for long-lasting performance and helping your vehicle stay ready for the road. Part of that routine includes checking the fluids that help keep your vehicle operating as efficiently as possible.
However, with so many types of fluids in a car, it can be challenging to know which ones to track. From engine oil to coolant, knowing which fluids to monitor, when they need to be changed, and where to get them checked can help prevent costly repairs down the road.
Here’s a breakdown of the fluids many cars need, which ones you should check regularly, and where to get these crucial car fluids checked and changed.
Each fluid in your vehicle serves a specific purpose, and neglecting them could lead to risky driving conditions, wear and tear on the part or system they’re meant to maintain, and ultimately, expensive repairs. When fluids are low or contaminated, your car could experience various problems like overheating, friction damage, and corrosion.
To avoid these types of problems, make regular fluid checks part of your maintenance routine. Whether it’s brake fluid ensuring your car stops safely or coolant preventing the engine from overheating, each fluid plays a vital role.
If you’re unsure where to start or need expert assistance, Ed Hicks Nissan offers many service benefits for your ride. With experienced technicians and warranty assurance for Nissan vehicles, we provide comprehensive fluid services to maintain performance and help protect your vehicle’s resale value.
Each car fluid serves a specific function, and while some require regular checks, others only need maintenance under certain conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what fluids need to be changed in a car, along with their purpose, risks if neglected, and how to check them.
Note: Before you check fluids in a car, ensure your vehicle is turned off, cool, and parked on a level surface. Not doing so can lead to serious injuries. You should also wear protective gloves and eye wear before getting started.
Engine oil (sometimes referred to as motor oil) is fundamental to your car’s performance. It lubricates and cools engine parts, minimizing wear and preventing overheating. Without adequate oil, the engine’s components can grind together, potentially causing damage that’s both expensive and difficult to repair.
Checking your engine oil regularly is crucial. Most vehicles need an oil change every three months or every 3,000 miles (whichever comes first), though this timeframe may vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, age, and engine. The type of engine oil you use may also be a factor. To be certain, always check your car owner’s manual for the most accurate interval.
The engine oil dipstick is usually marked with a colored handle or ring pull, located near the engine. With the engine off, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again to check the level. If it’s below the minimum mark or there’s no oil at all on your engine oil dipstick, you likely need to top off this fluid.
Transmission fluid enables smooth gear shifts and maintains the cooling and lubrication of your car’s transmission system. If the fluid is low or contaminated, you might notice symptoms like delayed acceleration, unusual grinding noises, and rough shifting, all of which can lead to further transmission issues if left unchecked.
Transmission fluid changes are generally recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but this interval is heavily dependent on your vehicle type. While this fluid typically doesn’t need to be changed as often as motor oil, neglecting its service interval can quickly lead to issues like transmission failure—a repair that can be almost as expensive as replacing your engine.
Some cars have a dipstick for transmission fluid, but many newer models and manual transmissions need professional checks. Check your car owner’s manual for guidance on if this is a project you can do at home.
If you can locate the transmission fluid reservoir in your vehicle, remove the dipstick when your car is turned off and parked on a flat surface. Wipe it clean, reinsert it slowly, and then pull it back out. If it’s below the “full” or “low” marks on the dipstick or if the color, smell, or consistency is off —transmission fluid is often bright red or pink and should smell clean, not burnt—consider stopping by Ed Hicks Nissan for assistance.
Brake fluid is a crucial component that allows the force from your brake pedal to reach the brakes effectively. Without it, your car’s braking performance could suffer tremendously.
Brake fluid has a hygroscopic quality, meaning that it’s prone to water absorption. This quality can lead to corrosion, rust, and other lasting issues. When brake fluid levels are low or contaminated, you might experience problems like brake fade, “spongy” brakes, and corroded brake parts. These symptoms can make it harder to stop quickly and efficiently, an issue you definitely don’t want to experience on the road.
Brake fluid changes are often required every two to three years or when your pads and rotors are replaced, but frequent checks and flushes are advised to catch any leaks or issues early. Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to help maximize the life of your vehicle’s brakes and ensure warranty compliance.
Find the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. The reservoir is typically near the master cylinder, but if it isn’t, consult your owner’s manual for the exact location. The fluid should be within the marked range and look clear or amber. If it’s dark or low, it may be time to have it serviced.
Coolant, or antifreeze, helps prevent your engine from overheating in warm weather and from freezing in cold weather. This fluid circulates through the engine, regulating temperature and protecting against corrosion, overheating, and engine damage. Over time, coolant can start to deteriorate, lose its anti-corrosion properties, or become contaminated. That’s why staying up to date on your coolant’s service intervals is crucial to engine longevity.
Coolant typically doesn’t need to be changed nearly as often as the other fluids mentioned above, with some modern options lasting up to 10 years. However, the exact timing for replacement depends on several factors, including your vehicle’s make and model, the type of coolant used, your driving habits, and the climate you typically drive in. As always, check your car owner’s manual to be certain.
Checking coolant levels and color in the reservoir can alert you to potential issues. Locate the coolant reservoir (never open it when hot). Coolant should be between the “low” and “full” markings. If it’s low, have it topped off or replaced by a professional at Ed Hicks Nissan.
Power steering fluid ensures that your car’s steering remains light and responsive, reducing the effort required to turn the wheel. If this fluid gets low or degraded, turning your steering wheel may become difficult, leading to stiff or jerky reactions when trying to turn or maneuver on the road. This symptom can make driving challenging and even dangerous. Checking your power steering fluid levels every three to six months—or if you experience difficulty steering—is a good practice and can help prevent these issues.
If you’d like to check your fluid levels before stopping by a dealership, the power steering reservoir can typically be found on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, with a cap labeled “Power Steering.” The reservoir has minimum and maximum lines to indicate proper levels. If it’s low, Ed Hicks Nissan technicians can top it off or replace it as needed to keep your steering smooth and responsive.
While windshield washer fluid doesn’t impact your car’s mechanics, it is essential for visibility and safety. Low washer fluid can prevent you from clearing dirt and debris from your windshield, affecting your ability to see properly. It’s wise to check the washer fluid every few months and top it off as needed, particularly before long drives or if the fluid is no longer emitting when prompted.
Checking and locating windshield washer fluid levels is relatively easy. The reservoir is usually transparent with a windshield or water symbol on the cap. Once you remove the cap, check the fluid level. If it’s low, carefully pour washer fluid into the reservoir, but avoid filling it all the way to the top.
Note: Avoid using water in the washer fluid reservoir since it can freeze in colder conditions and damage the hoses and reservoir.
Some fluids, like differential fluid and transfer case fluid, don’t often need regular checks. These fluids typically last for tens of thousands of miles and are only inspected or replaced during major services. However, if you notice performance issues or unusual noises, it’s wise to have these fluids checked, which Ed Hicks Nissan can help with during routine inspections.
Your car’s performance relies heavily on the proper maintenance of its essential fluids. Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major repair. Visit Ed Hicks Nissan today to have our expert technicians thoroughly inspect and service all your vehicle’s fluids, from engine oil to brake fluid, and ensure everything is in top shape. Schedule your fluid check now or drop in for our fast and convenient Nissan Express Service, so you can drive with confidence knowing that your car is well-maintained.
Visit your nearest Ed Hicks Nissan to help protect your car and drive with peace of mind.
