6 Essential Fluids Your Vehicle Needs To Function Properly

Any experienced driver knows that their car requires some basic maintenance to perform well? While most people know that they need to change their oil and rotate their tires, did you know that your vehicle also needs a variety of other fluids?

Mazda of Fort Walton Beach will look at the six essential fluids your vehicle requires to function. Make sure you’re taking care of these.

1. Engine Oil:

Motor oil is the arguably the most crucial fluid in your car. It plays a vital role in lubricating the engine so it functions correctly. It is recommended to change your engine oil every five thousand miles, or 3 months. However, this number can vary depending on the type of oil you use, the age and make of your car, and how you drive it. You should always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.

2. Transmission Fluid:

Transmission fluid helps keep the gears in your car lubricated and functioning properly. Changing the transmission fluid at regular intervals is essential as it can become contaminated or less effective over time.

Car manufacturers typically recommend changing the transmission oil every 30,000 miles. However, if you’re driving in a particularly dusty or sandy area, you may need to change it more often.

3. Power Steering Fluid:

This fluid helps keep your car’s power steering system in good working order. You need to check this fluid level often and add more as needed. Manufacturers typically recommend changing the power steering oil every 30,000 miles.

4. Brake Fluid:

Brake fluid helps transfer pressure from your foot on the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. It’s essential to keep your brake fluid levels topped off, as low levels can cause your brakes to fail. Manufacturers typically recommend changing the brake fluid every two years or 24,000 miles.

5. Coolant:

The coolant helps keep your engine cool and prevents overheating. It’s essential to ensure that the coolant is always at the correct level so that your vehicle doesn’t start overheating after a long drive, or while driving on a particularly warm day.

Manufacturers typically recommend changing the coolant every two years or 24,000 miles or top up if the level falls below the required mark.

6. Windshield Washer Fluid:

The windshield washer fluid helps keep your windshield clean while you’re driving. It’s essential to make sure that the windshield washer fluid is always topped up, as you don’t want to have to get out of your car and wipe your windscreen yourself each time it gets dirty.

The windshield wiper fluid has to be replaced at least once a year, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the levels and fill it up if necessary whenever you’re filling up your gas tank.

Conclusion

While you may be aware of the need to change your oil and rotate your tires, you mustn’t forget about the other essential fluids your car needs. By regularly scheduling a service at Mazda of Fort Walton Beach serving Niceville, FL, we can help ensure your car continues to run smoothly.

Schedule your car service today!