Understanding Your Vehicle's Fluids

🚗 Ever wonder what all those fluids under your hood actually do? From keeping your engine cool to helping you steer with ease, your vehicle relies on several essential fluids to keep things running smoothly.

💧 Here’s a sneak peek at 7 of the most common fluids you should know, have checked, and replaced regularly:

✅ Engine Oil: Lubricates and cools engine components to reduce friction and wear.

• How to Check: With the engine off and cool, pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it out again.

• What to Look For: The oil level should be between the "min" and "max" lines on the dipstick. The oil should be amber or yellowish; dark or black oil means it's time for a change. 
  

✅ Engine Coolant: Regulates the engine's temperature and prevents it from overheating or freezing.

• How to Check: Wait for the engine to cool completely before opening the hood. Check the coolant reservoir, which is often a transparent or semi-transparent tank, and look at the fluid level against the "cold fill" lines.

• What to Look For: The fluid should be between the "min" and "max" lines. 
  

✅ Transmission Fluid: Lubricates and cools the transmission components, and is crucial for shifting gears.

• How to Check: Check when the engine is cool for most vehicles. For some vehicles, this check is done with the engine warm and running, with the transmission in "park" or "neutral"—always consult your owner's manual first.

• What to Look For: Check the dipstick like you would for engine oil. The fluid should be translucent red. If it's dark, brown, or has particles, it needs to be replaced. 
  

✅ Brake Fluid: Transfers force from the brake pedal to the brakes, allowing the car to stop.

• How to Check: With the engine off, find the small, often transparent reservoir, typically with a "brake fluid" symbol on the cap.

• What to Look For: The fluid level should be between the "min" and "max" lines on the side of the reservoir. The fluid should be clear or slightly yellow, not dark or dirty. 
  

✅ Power Steering Fluid: Provides hydraulic pressure to assist in steering.

• How to Check: Locate the power steering reservoir, which may have a dipstick or external markings.

• What to Look For: If there's a dipstick, the level should be between the "min" and "max" lines. If it has a reservoir with lines, check the level between them. If the fluid is dark or the steering is making noises, have it checked by a professional. 
  

✅ Windshield Washer Fluid: Cleans the windshield to improve visibility.

• How to Check: This is the easiest to check. Locate the plastic reservoir and look at the fluid level from the outside.

• What to Look For: If the level is low, simply add more fluid through the fill cap. The cap will usually have a symbol of a windshield and spray nozzle. 
  

✅ Differential Fluid (if applicable): Lubricates the gears in the differential, which allows the wheels to

rotate at different speeds when turning.

• How to Check: Differential fluid is often checked with a fill plug, which might require a mechanic. A mechanic can check the level during a service.

• What to Look For: The owner's manual will have specific instructions. Differential fluid should be checked every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. 

🛠️ Each one plays a critical role in your car’s performance, safety, and longevity. Need to replace your fluids? Be sure to stop in to the shop at 4713 8th Street in Great Bend or give our Cornerstone Automotive & Tire team a call at 620-282-0035 to schedule your appointment today!