No matter what kind of car you drive, it is your job to watch for problems. If you wait for a small problem to become a larger one you could end up on the wrong end of a costly repair bill. Whether you fix everything yourself or reach out for professional advice at the first sign of trouble, here are the automotive fluids you should be keeping tabs on every chance you get.
Engine Oil
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and without it your vehicle will not be going far. It is important to monitor the oil level on the dipstick regularly, preferably every week or at least every two weeks.
At the very least you should check the oil level with every oil change. If the oil level drops, you should investigate the cause right away, as excess oil consumption could be a sign of a much larger problem.
Transmission Fluid
The transmission is another vital component of your car, and you should be monitoring the fluid that moves through it on a regular basis. If the transmission fluid is discolored, dark, or contains metal shavings, it is important to take your car to the mechanic right away.
If you catch the problem early you may be able to resolve it without major expense. If you wait, you could be looking at a major overhaul or even a replacement.
Windshield Washer Fluid
You rely on your windshield wipers to keep your vision clear, but if the fluid is gone you could be in trouble. It is important to keep close tabs on the amount of windshield washer fluid in the reservoir, topping it off as needed to keep your windshield clear and the road ahead highly visible.
Brake Fluid
The brake fluid is another vital part of your car that warrants careful attention. If the brake fluid level drops even a little bit, it could seriously impact your ability to stop safely, and the loss of fluid could even trigger a serious accident.
If your braking system is working the way it should you should not see any appreciable drop in the fluid level. If you notice any reduction in the amount of fluid, you should stop driving your car and have it towed to a reputable mechanic.
Coolant
As the name implies, the job of the coolant is to keep your engine cool, and if the level drops it could end up overheating. An overheated engine is an emergency, and if the temperature level spikes you should stop driving and call a tow truck.
It is a good idea to monitor the coolant level regularly, at least once a month or so. Topping the coolant off is important as well – just be sure to not overfill the reservoir.
Your vehicle contains lots of vital fluids, and without them it will not be going far. If you are not checking these fluids regularly, you could literally be driving on borrowed time.