Cars are one of the most valuable things for the majority of us. You want to make sure your European car runs smoothly for a long period. Regularly monitoring the fluids under the bonnet is one approach to prevent problems in your car. The following are some of the important fluids you should check on a regular basis:
Engine Oil
The oil in your car is one of the most crucial fluids since it lubricates the moving elements of your engine. It is recommended that you keep the proper amount of oil in your car to reduce regular wear and tear on your engine. To locate the oil dipstick, consult the owner's handbook. Once you've located it, wipe it down with a paper towel. Reinsert the dipstick into the opening and review the level markings to see if you need more engine oil. In some cars, there is no longer a dipstick, so in that case, refer to the owner’s manual about how to access the built in ‘oil level’ check feature of your particular car.
Transmission Fluid
When you shift gears, the transmission fluid works as a lubricant. Inspect this fluid While your engine is running. Again, refer to the manual to learn how you can locate the transmission fluid dipstick. Clean it up and make sure your transmission fluid is at the proper level. Remember to look at the fluid to see if it's red or brown. If the fluid has already turned a brownish colour, it is likely burned and has to be replaced. Many modern cars no longer have a dipstick, as their transmission fluid is either ‘life-time’ fill, or cannot be checked unless in a workshop/on a hoist or with special tools.
Antifreeze
If there's smoke coming from under the bonnet, your car is overheating, and the water pump, radiator, or antifreeze fluid are most likely to blame for. The antifreeze, also known as coolant, is dispensed through a hole in the radiator at the front of the vehicle. Before you remove the cap, make sure the engine is completely cool. You can make your own antifreeze fluid by mixing distilled water with it. It would be simpler to get a pre-mixed version from an auto shop, but in all cases, a simple top up with water is preferred, rather than mixing a non-compatible coolant type into your car’s system.
Power Steering Fluid
One of the most prominent characteristics of old cars is the heavy steering. Parallel parking can be a difficult task. Most cars nowadays include power steering, which allows the driver to maneuver smoothly at any speed. The majority of power steering systems are hydraulic, and they employ pressurized fluid to allow drivers to spin the wheel with ease. Although there is no set period for replacing power steering fluid, it is still necessary to learn how to check it. You must know how to identify the dipstick, just as you must know how to locate the other fluids discussed in this article. Check the markings on the reservoir using it. If your power steering fluid is low, simply add extra until it reaches the desired level. However, it is critical to use the type intended specifically for your vehicle to avoid problems down the line. If you've found that you've been adding fluid on a regular basis, there's most likely a leak. Steering the wheel will become increasingly difficult if you do not fix this problem. In the case of many modern cars, electronic power steering is fitted, so no actual fluid reservoir is present – if this is your car, and the steering is heavy, seek professional advice promptly.
Brake Fluid
To maintain a safe driving experience, it's critical to keep your brakes in good working order. Taking care of your braking fluid is, of course, an important component of this. Brakes on modern cars are hydraulic and it is essential for the fluid to be incompressible so that pressure can be transferred from the brake pedals through the callipers. Your braking fluid will become compressible if you don't maintain it properly, softening your pedal. To deliver the proper pressure, you'd have to pump or push the pedal harder, which would also prohibit you from stopping quickly. To assure that your brake pads are working properly, inspect the reservoir level and determine if you have adequate braking fluid. Unless there is a leak in the system or significant wear on the brake pads, there should be no change in the reservoir level.
What Does it Mean That Brake Fluids are Hygroscopic?
Most brake fluids, such as DOT 3 and DOT 4, are hygroscopic, which means that when exposed to air, they collect moisture. Moisture, which can be absorbed through brake lines or the brake fluid reservoir even while the vehicle is not being driven, is the major adversary of brake fluid. This is a typical part of the fluid's life cycle, but it's amplified in humid environments and climates. After a year of use, your brake fluid will absorb about 2% of the moisture in the air. This lowers your braking fluid's boiling point, increasing the danger of a brake failure. Manufacturers normally specify brake fluid change every 2 or 3 years. Checking under the bonnet for a few minutes could save you a lot of time and money. If you don't feel comfortable doing it yourself, German Precision Vehicle Inspections can assist you. We can evaluate your vehicle's braking system and advise you on what needs to be done to keep your brakes in good working order.
When Should You Change Your Oil?
When it comes to changing the oil, many car specialists have their own opinions. However, reading the handbook is your best act. It should serve as your car's operating and maintenance manual. There are also service reminder monitors in pickup trucks, sedans, and SUVs that inform drivers when it's time to change their oil. If you have such technology, act quickly and change your oil as soon as you get the alarm.
Oil Changes: How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
Oil should be changed every three months or 5000 kilometres, according to some experts. However, engine advances have rendered this regulation obsolete. Oil-change intervals of 12000 to 16000 kilometres, and even up to 25000 or 30000km for some makes, have been designed by car manufacturers. Oil changes are required by some car brands every two or three years.
Contact a Professional
If you want to maintain the condition of your car's various fluids to make it last longer and you're not sure when to add or replace fluids, your best option is to take your car to our professional Vehicle Inspector at
German Precision. Source: mynrma.com.au and servicecentreperth.com.au
