If your vehicle maintenance routine only consists of periodic oil changes, you are neglecting many other important vehicle fluids.  Your vehicle’s systems use a variety of fluids to support their function through lubrication, temperature control, hydraulics, and cleaning.  These fluids not only need to be checked on a periodic basis, but they also require replacement.  In this month’s blog post, we review four vehicle fluids and the timeframe that you should include in your ongoing vehicle care.  Before you begin any plan, consult with your vehicle owner’s manual for fluid timeframes and details for your specific vehicle make and model.

Brake Fluid

Every time you press your foot on the brake pedal, you are engaging the brake fluid in your vehicle.  Brake fluid serves as a hydraulic assist to your braking components.  When brake fluid is low, it may be due to a leak in the lines or system.  Low brake fluid presents a safety concern, as it impedes the performance of your braking ability.  If you drive a lot, you should check your brake fluid every few months.  Brake fluid should be replaced every 20,000 miles.

Coolant

Your vehicle’s engine is subjected to high temperatures, and the coolant is what helps to keep the engine from overheating.  Coolant is a fluid that circulates through the engine to absorb the heat, then back to the radiator to cool down.  When the coolant is low, you will most likely overheat.  Not only is this inconvenient, but it can also be very damaging to the radiator and the engine.  Coolant levels should be checked monthly, and coolant replenished when it’s low.  If you notice signs of a leak, have it checked out.  Most service professionals recommend a coolant flush every 20,000 miles or two years.

Transmission Fluid

Your vehicle’s transmission uses a type of oil to keep components lubricated and temperature regulated.  You should check the transmission fluid at least once a year.  Both manual and automatic transmissions use fluid in their systems.  Some modern transmissions are designed to seal the fluid in without ever being replaced.  However, most transmissions are not sealed systems and still need a fluid change between 75,000 – 100,000 miles.  If you are driving your vehicle a lot, or towing large loads, you may want to have it replaced sooner.

Power Steering Fluid

If you ever had a challenge in turning your steering wheel, you may have experienced a drop in your power steering fluid.  Power steering fluid provides hydraulic power to aid the driver with turning the wheel.  You may also have heard unusual noises from the power steering pump.  Steering is a safety item so you do not want to lose power steering fluid while driving.  Check your steering fluid level at least once a year.  This is one vehicle fluid that drivers may overlook, until a problem surfaces with their steering.  There are a variety of recommended timeframes for power steering fluid replacement, but you should consult with your vehicle owner’s manual for the best timeframe.

If you are looking to extend your vehicle’s health while having a safe driving experience, you may want to consider an expanded vehicle fluid maintenance plan.  Your plan should include how often you check the fluid levels, and timeframes for fluid replacement.  Contact the service professionals at Colonial Service Station to schedule an appointment and discuss your vehicle maintenance needs.