When it comes to keeping your vehicle on the road a few jobs need to be done. Among them, properly maintaining tires to replacing the headlight bulbs are on the list. Also, keeping fuel in the gas tank is a good checklist item. Owning a vehicle requires more than simply having a driver’s license, though you don’t have to be a mechanic to drive. The more you know about vehicle maintenance, the better your ride will be and the longer your car will last.
With maintenance and longevity in mind, there are several fluids you must monitor and replace. Proper maintenance ensures your vehicle is always ready to go, be it a short drive to the store or a long road trip.
Must-Have Fluids for Your Car
Antifreeze and Coolant –
Antifreeze regulates the temperature of your engine. It helps your vehicle operate at the correct temperature- no matter what type of weather Mother Nature sends. You can check this fluid level easily and refill it as necessary. Ideally, you need to replace this fluid every 2-3 years. Caution: Always check this fluid level with a COLD engine. After your engine has been running, the fluid in your radiator is under high pressure. Opening it when your engine is still warm or hot can cause severe burns.
Brake Fluid –
Squishy brakes are dangerous. You need your vehicle to stop when you want- every time. To ensure your brakes are always ready, it is vital they are properly maintained. Brake pads need to be replaced, lines need to be checked and brake fluid needs to be added as needed. When topping off brake fluid, it should be filled to within a half-inch from the top.
Engine Oil –
Engine Oil –At least once a month, check the oil level of your vehicle. The oil dipstick shows the acceptable high and low range for your engine’s oil level. Add oil as necessary. Then, depending on your owner’s manual, the oil should be changed at 5,000+/- miles. If you use synthetic oil, you can go further between oil changes, saving a bit of time at the mechanic’s shop.
Power Steering Fluid –
Make it easier to steer and control your vehicle. Check the power steering fluid periodically and top off as needed.
Transmission Fluid –
The transmission’s job is to keep things running smoothly per the speed at which you are traveling. Transmission fluid is designed to lubricate and cool the system, so the transmission works properly. Failing to keep transmission fluid at the proper level causes damage to the transmission and results in rough acceleration, as well as jerky stops and starts.
While these five fluids affect how well your vehicle handles, there is a sixth fluid you should keep topped off that will make a difference in your driving- windshield wiper fluid. We all know it’s not safe to drive when you can’t see clearly, so make it easier by being sure there is always windshield wiper fluid in the reservoir.
Maintaining these fluids is not difficult, nor does it take a great deal of time. Making it a monthly To Do list item will only take about 30 minutes but can save you significantly more time and money. Make it simple to keep these fluids topped off, by purchasing these fluids from your AMSOIL dealer at Lifetime Oil. Be it a few quarts of oil, transmission fluid, coolant, or other product AMSOIL is the place to get all the necessary fluids for your vehicle. And, If you buy in bulk you can save money, as well as time.
Don’t let a lack of planning ahead keep you from taking that next trip. Be sure to top off these important fluids with AMSOIL products so your vehicle is ready to go when you are.
