How to Check and Maintain Fluid Levels In Your Car

How to Check and Maintain Fluid Levels In Your Car

Just like you, a car needs fluids to survive.  Fluid levels can be checked by almost everyone.  It's easy to do, doesn't take that long and can add years to the life of your engine.

Begin by parking your car and turning off the engine.  Open the hood and secure it.  Let the car sit for at least five minutes to allow the fluids to settle.

Engine Oil

Now let's start with oil since it is the most vital fluid in your car's engine.  First locate the dipstick.  Often it will be brightly colored, yellow or red.  Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean with a rag and re-insert it.  Remove it a second time and check the level.  The level should be between the two hash marks near the bottom of the stick.  If it's below the lower mark, add a quart of oil.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid level is also important.  If you have an automatic transmission, this is done with the engine on.  Before you start the car, locate the transmission dipstick.  It will normally be located near the engine oil dipstick but deeper into the engine bay.  If you can't find it, consult your owner's manual.

Now start the engine.  Before you pull the transmission dipstick, make sure you have no loose clothing or jewelry dangling from your neck.  It could get caught in the fan belt or other moving engine parts.  Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and re-insert it.  Remove it a second time and check the fluid level just as you did with the oil dipstick.  Transmission fluid will hardly ever be low.  If it is, it probably means you have a leak in the system.  If your transmission fluid appears low, call your mechanic and make an appointment.

Brake Fluid

Locate the brake fluid reservoir.  It's usually in the engine compartment on or near the firewall.  Avoid getting water in the braking system at all costs.  Don't check your brake fluid in the rain unless you're in a garage.  Remove the cap and look inside.  The reservoir should be at least two thirds full.  If not, add fluid.  If you continue to have low brake fluid, take your car to a mechanic.  You might have a leak somewhere in the system.

Window Washing Fluid

This one's easy.  Just pop the lid off and add water or washer fluid.  If you live in a climate where the temperature can drop below 32 degrees, use only specially formulated windshield washer fluid.  This fluid will not freeze when the temperature drops.

The Radiator

We've intentionally saved the radiator for last since it should be done when the engine has cooled done.  Never open up your cooling system when the engine is hot.  The system is under pressure and could cause scalding burns. 

After the engine has cooled, locate the radiator.  It's usually at the very front of the engine compartment.  In older cars you would fill the coolant directly into the radiator.  Now most cars have radiator overflow reservoirs.  They are connected to the radiator via a rubber hose.  Pop the lid on the reservoir and look inside.  It should be about half full.  If not, add some coolant.  You shouldn't have to add too much.  If you do, make a mental note to visit a service center.  You might have a leak in the system.

That's all there is to maintaining your car's fluid levels.  It's quick, easy and might just help you avoid a roadside emergency.