Running on Liquid: Understanding the Different Functions of Car Fluids

Car fluids, in addition to the components that use them, are the lifeblood of any car. Without them, motors burn up, transmissions stall and other unwanted things go haywire. Know the difference between automotive fluids, their characteristics and functions. And most importantly, know how and when to check and replace these fluids. Hence, here is a brief rundown of the most common and important automotive fluids. 

Transmission Fluid

Right up there with oil and gasoline in terms of importance, transmission fluid is the critical substance that provides hydraulic power for shifting gears while simultaneously lubricating them. Do you know when and how to check it? 

Like checking the oil level, it’s a good idea to have the engine running and warm when checking tranny fluid. Start by taking the transmission fluid dipstick out (don’t confuse it with the oil dipstick), wipe it clean, reinsert it and take it out again, taking note of the level on the stick. Unless the car’s gears are not switching smoothly (in which case you should check the fluid even more often), always check the transmission fluid at least once a month. 

Coolant

Engines get hot, there’s no way around it. That’s where coolant–often a mixture of water and antifreeze that resides in a reservoir alongside the engine–comes into action. Antifreeze, used more in climates with colder winters, protects against both extreme heat and severe cold. 

Oil

Even people who know absolutely nothing about cars or how they work know (or should know) that oil is the single most important thing in an engine. Not only does it provide lubrication for moving parts, it protects against rust by staving off metal oxidation and collects dirt via the oil filter. Let’s put it this way, with too little oil, the engine is going to wear down exponentially faster; with no oil, your engine’s dead in no time. 

Oil should be checked about every three weeks (more often on older and/or higher-mileage cars). Also, check it just like you would the aforementioned transmission fluid–just don’t get the wrong stick. 

Power Steering and Brake Fluid

These fluids, like transmission fluid, provide hydraulic pressure to help the driver brake and steer with little effort. However, they are different beasts than other coolants like oil and coolants in one major aspect: cars typically don’t deplete them. If there’s a problem, say with a leak in the power steering fluid container, yes, issues will generally start popping up everywhere. Generally, though, these liquids should be checked once every two to three months. 

Windshield Washer Fluid

Contrary to what most non-mechanics think of window washer fluid, it’s more than just pretty blue water. Washer fluid contains several chemicals like methanol and ethylene glycol that break down things like bug guts splattered across your window quicker and more efficiently than soapy water. Check it once a month or so.

Article Credit:
According to National Transmission, a Calgary bearing and transmission company, checking your transmission fluid frequently will save the operator extravagant repair bills due to wear and tear.