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Your car uses several different fluids to prevent damage to its essential components and keep it running at peak performance. While an auto mechanic can replenish them for you, you should still know when they need to be refilled to seek timely service. 

5 Car Fluids You Need to Check

1. Engine Oil

Oil lubricates the moving components in the engine to keep them working efficiently. Check your engine oil at least once every month to make sure it doesn't build up contaminants or run low. For accurate results, the car’s engine should be cold before testing the oil.

First, pull the dipstick out of the pipe located near the oil reservoir, and wipe it off using a clean rag. Next, reinsert the dipstick and pull it out once again to check if the oil markings are at a safe level.

2. Coolant

Coolant absorbs excess heat from your engine to keep it from breaking down. Remove the radiator cap to check coolant levels. If you can’t see the liquid near the top, refill as needed. However, never do this with a hot or running engine because the pressurized contents in the radiator can explode when opened.

3. Transmission Fluid

Similar to engine oil, auto mechanictransmission fluid provides lubrication and cools the moving components in the system. When it’s low, you’ll experience slipping gears, rough shifts, and sudden surging.

Checking procedures differ across cars—sometimes, you may need an auto mechanic to do it. If yours has a dipstick, use it as you would when checking your engine oil. Assess the transmission fluid level and condition, and if it looks gritty, cloudy, or dark, it needs to be flushed.

4. Brake Fluid

Most braking systems run on hydraulic pressure, so when you have difficulty stopping your car or feel anything off, check the brake fluid first. Locate the reservoir, often found in the engine bay, to check its content level and condition. If it’s nearing the minimum mark, there’s likely a leak somewhere. Also, have an auto mechanic replace the fluid when it looks murky instead of translucent. 

5. Refrigerant

When temperatures start rising, the air conditioner is a welcome relief. But if it’s low on refrigerant or Freon, you won’t feel as comfy as you’d like. Unlike other fluids, checking this requires a bit of know-how as well as a thermometer and proper AC gauge. It’s best to leave the job to an auto mechanic.

 

For the best results, let the ASE®-certified auto mechanics of Precision Auto Repair check the fluids in your vehicle. As a trusted auto shop in Kailua-Kona, HI, they’ve provided an extensive range of maintenance services since 2010. Call (808) 329-7223 to set up an appointment, or view their full list of auto repairs online. Check out Keola Magazine and the Best of Kona feature for Ricky Dollars to get $10 off any work over $50.

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