Did you know that cooling system failure is the leading cause of mechanical breakdown on the highway? That’s why it is important to maintain the right level of fluids in your radiator. In fact, the same holds true for ALL the fluids in your vehicle. Here is why:
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Engine coolant: Also called antifreeze or radiator fluid, coolant is circulated through your radiator to maintain proper engine temperature. If you do not maintain the right level, your engine can overheat. Coolant helps lubricate your water pump and prevents corrosion in your engine and radiator.
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Brake fluid: The brake system uses fluid to transmit the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to each of the brakes at the wheels. If that fluid is low, so is brake responsiveness.
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Power steering fluid: Your power steering uses a system of belts and pumps to keep the fluid within under pressure. That pressure is what helps you steer the vehicle. When fluid is low, the pressure decreases making steering more difficult.
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Transmission fluid: Whether your car has an automatic or manual transmission, it uses a system of gears to transmit engine power to the wheels. Transmission fluid lubricates those gears and keeps the system running properly.
As a rule of thumb:
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Every oil change, or every 3,000 miles, check the engine coolant, brake, power steering, and transmission fluids.
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Every two years, or every 30,000, completely change your engine coolant and brake fluid.
You’ve heard the expression, “a well-oiled machine.” Well, maintaining your car’s fluids at their proper level is critical to “greasing its parts” and keeping things running smoothly. Stay hydrated!
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