It is Winter Fluid Checks Time

Now that it is approaching winter, this is a good time to make sure that your car is going to provide adequate service for you. One of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is to perform fluid checks and to make them a part of your regular winter safety routine. While each vehicle manufacturer may list different timetables in which to perform particular fluid changes, it is always a good idea to at least check the levels to make sure that they are at their recommended levels. You can top off levels that are low and check for any leaks and other repairs that may be needed now or in the near future.

Engine Oil and Transmission Fluid, Check

When you check your engine oil, you should drive the car around for a few minutes and then let it sit for about five minutes. Open the hood and locate the oil dipstick, which may have a brightly colored handle. Pull out the dipstick, wipe it down with a clean towel, and reinsert the rod. Pull out the rod again and check to make sure that the oil level falls between the two indicator marks that are on the stick. If it falls below the lowest mark, add more oil. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause damage to your engine. The transmission is a sealed system and should not have a low level. If you have a closed system transmission, you will need to take your car to an ASE master technician to check the fluid level for you. If you have an open system, you can check the level by pulling out the dipstick for transmission fluid and reading the level while the car is still running. If you find this level low, then you may have a leak somewhere and you will need to have a professional assess the transmission system for you. 

Brake and Windshield Wiper Fluids, Check

The brake system is a closed system, as is the transmission system; therefore, this level should not be low. If the level is low, then you may have a leak somewhere. The brake fluid should never read below two-thirds full. Top off the level if it is a bit low. If you top off the fluid level and you get another low reading soon afterwards, then you may have a leak. Have your mechanic assess the braking system hoses, gaskets, and lines. If you find any lines that are brittle, corroded, cracked, or damaged, you should have those replaced right away. Windshield wiper fluid is important because it helps you keep the glass clear of road salt and other debris that can adhere to the surface and obstruct your view. If you live in the states that experience frigid temperatures, you can find wiper fluid that does not freeze in cold weather. It is more expensive, so you can add alcohol to regular wiper fluid the keep it from freezing.

Battery and Radiator Fluids, Check

Car batteries have six cells, each one generating two volts of power. The battery is assembled with alternating plates of lead and lead dioxide and the plates are immersed in a solution of sulfuric acid and water. Older batteries have caps on the top that will allow you to open it to add distilled water to the cells if the level is low. Over time, the water in the cells will evaporate because of the chemical reactions that are taking place inside from charging at very high voltages or from overcharging. Newer batteries are closed systems and do not have any openings at the top for adding water. They contain additional solution to compensate for lost fluid. Radiator fluid is the cooling agent that keeps the car from overheating. You should only check radiator fluid with the engine cold and exercise caution when removing the cap because the pressurization could cause a blow up of scalding steam and cause tissue damage. When you perform your fluid checks, be sure to inspect the parts and replace any that are worn or damaged.