While they might not be the first thing that come to mind when you think about vehicle maintenance, your car’s fluids are literally its lifeblood and they are a vital component of its health.
Vehicle fluids perform a variety of functions that keep your engine running at an optimal level. You should monitor your car’s fluid levels closely and, in some cases, perform regular flushes in order to keep your vehicle safely on the road between tune-ups.
– Motor Oil is responsible for lubricating all of your engine’s moving parts and will need to be replaced every three months or 3,000 miles. If you don’t change your oil regularly it will thicken and your engine will not be able to function properly.
– Brake Fluid amplifies the force with which your vehicle stops, transferring force into pressure in your hydraulic braking system. Depending on its chemical composition, brake fluid should typically be flushed every year or two.
– Coolant & Antifreeze keep your engine running at the proper temperature. By transferring heat via a process known as convection, engine coolant prevents overheating or freezing from occurring in your vehicle. These fluids tend to vary in terms of composition, so it’s best to check with your preferred brand’s manufacturer for a changeout timetable.
– Transmission Fluid performs the task of making sure that your transmission is properly lubricated, which is critical to your car’s health. Like engine coolant, there are several different types of transmission fluid so its flushing schedule will be dependent upon the manufacturer.
Other fluids that can be found in your vehicle include power steering fluid, washer fluid and refrigerant, all of which will need to be changed out regularly as part of your preventative maintenance schedule. If you have any questions regarding your vehicle’s fluids are you need to schedule an appointment for a flush, give us a call at 336-294-2137 or swing by our shop on West Market Street!