Learn more about Automotive Fluids

A regular check of the fluids and fluid levels of a personal or rental vehicle is essential to ensuring your vehicle is reliable and operating properly. There are a host of fluids to check under the hood of your car including brake fluid, power steering fluid, oil, transmission fluid, radiator level, and windscreen washer. This article will have a look at the areas of concern with regards to all of the above fluids.

Oil

 Checking your oil regularly is one of the most important things you can do to prolong the life of your vehicle’s engine. This is done by lifting the hood and checking the dipstick for the correct level. Always make sure you remove the dipstick and clean it off with a clean paper towel and then reinsert it to get an accurate reading. It is also advisable that you check the oil after the engine has not been running for about an hour as this will give you the most accurate reading. The markings on the dipstick will indicate whether you need to add more oil and if so keep filling until this is at the correct full level. Auckland car rentals should have this check performed after every hire and it is recommended that on a personal vehicle the oil level is checked every time you fill your tank.

The oil in your engine will eventually become dirty and need to be changed. If you regularly service your vehicle the oil should be changed then. If however you notice that your oil has changed from a clear golden brown colour to an opaque black colour then it is probably a good time to get the oil changed.

Coolant

 With engine coolant there are two things to be concerned with, the first is the coolant level and the second is the antifreeze density. The coolant serves to keep the vehicle engine at the optimal temperature for running and thus must be checked every time you fill your tank. The coolant level will be clearly marked and the level should always be kept at full. Antifreeze is added to the coolant in order to ensure it will stay liquid at temperatures under freezing and will have a distinct pink, green or brown colour. Auckland car rentals are checked after every hire to ensure this level and density is correct. If your personal or rental vehicle is running hot then check the pipes leading out of the coolant for blockages.

Brake Fluid

 This fluid is of importance as it is the one that can most likely prevent unnecessary accidents. Vehicles do not consume brake fluid and should therefore not need ongoing replacement. If your personal or rental vehicle is losing brake fluid than it is a strong indication that there is a leak in the break lines or that there is a worn brake surface. Either of these is a matter of great concern as it will compromise your safety. To check the brake fluid, simply locate the container and check that the level is within the range as marked when hot or cold. If it is difficult to make out the level rock the vehicle gently to get the level to move which should then be easy to identify.

Power Steering Fluid

Some cars that have power steering also have a container to check the power steering fluid. This is not a common fluid which will need topping up as if you do notice the level dropping it would be best to get the vehicle in for a service. The range will be indicated on the container and it is best practice to make a note of any changes. If there is a leak in the steering system you might not feel the difference until the steering column locks up so just keep an eye on the level.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is checked via the second and often smaller of the two dip sticks under the hood. It is unlikely you will need to top up the transmission fluid often and should be checked and replaced (when necessary) at regular services. The things to watch out for with regards to the transmission fluid is that the level is not changing and that the colour is not turning brown (with a distinct burnt smell). These are signs that there is a problem with the transmission and that the vehicle needs to be taken into a mechanic.

One important bit of information is that the transmission fluid should be checked while the vehicle is running and the engine is warm.

Windshield Washer Fluid

 While the windshield washer fluid will not directly impact the performance of your personal or rental vehicle it is still important that you keep it topped up for those rare occasions when you need it. Don’t just fill the washer fluid with water as there are specially formulated washer fluids out there designed to take off bugs and dirt. If you live in a cold part of the world or will be driving somewhere cold in your Auckland rental car then make sure it won’t freeze at low temperatures.

If you ever feel somthing on you vehicle does not sound or feel normal make sure you check with a professional as this is an indecation something is not right.