what fluids to check in car

[VanNova]

The six essential fluids to regularly check in your car are engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Neglecting these can lead to costly repairs or safety hazards. A quick visual inspection of each reservoir's level and condition takes just a few minutes but is one of the most effective forms of preventative maintenance you can perform.

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your engine, lubricating moving parts to prevent wear. Check it with the dipstick when the engine is cool and on level ground. The oil should be between the "min" and "max" marks and appear amber or brown, not black and gritty. Coolant (also known as antifreeze) regulates engine temperature. Never check the coolant reservoir when the engine is hot, as the system is under pressure. The level should be at the "cold fill" line.

Brake fluid is critical for safety, transferring force from the brake pedal to the wheels. Its reservoir is typically located near the firewall on the driver's side. The fluid should be clear to yellowish; if it's dark brown, it may need replacement. Power steering fluid ensures easy steering. Low fluid can cause a whining noise and stiff steering. Transmission fluid is checked with a dipstick (often different from the oil dipstick) and should be pinkish-red and not smell burnt. Finally, always keep windshield washer fluid full for visibility.

Fluid Type	Primary Function	Ideal Check Interval	Key Indicator to Check
Engine Oil	Lubricates engine components	Every other gas fill-up	Level & color on dipstick
Coolant	Regulates engine temperature	Once a month	Level in the overflow reservoir
Brake Fluid	Transfers hydraulic pressure for braking	Every oil change	Level and color (should be clear)
Power Steering Fluid	Assists in steering effort	Once a month	Level on the dipstick attached to cap
Transmission Fluid	Lubricates transmission gears	Every 3,000-6,000 miles	Level, color, and smell
Washer Fluid	Cleans windshield	Before long trips / seasonally	Level in the translucent reservoir

[KimberlyFitz]

Don't overcomplicate it. Just pop the hood every couple of weeks. Look for the plastic reservoirs with icons—a wrench for oil, a thermometer for coolant. Make sure the liquid is between the min and max lines. The windshield washer fluid is the easiest; if it's empty, just top it off. If any fluid looks dirty or low, it’s a heads-up to get it looked at. This simple habit saves you from big headaches later.

[Bonnie]

Think of it as a quick health check. Your car relies on these fluids to function safely. Dark, low brake fluid is a warning sign for your braking system. Discolored coolant can't protect against freezing or overheating. That annoying whine when you turn the wheel? Often just low power steering fluid. Keeping them at the correct levels isn't just about maintenance; it's about ensuring your safety and everyone else's on the road. It’s a five-minute task with a huge payoff.

[ArielLynn]

I’ve been driving the same truck for 15 years, and the secret is checking fluids. I do it on the first Saturday of the month. Engine oil is the big one—check it cool and on flat ground. Coolant, you only check when the engine is cold. The brake fluid reservoir is usually a small plastic tank near the back. If you see any leaks or the fluid looks murky, that’s your cue to see a mechanic. It’s like a monthly physical for your car, and it’s kept my old girl running smooth.