Fall is in the air and it is the perfect time to serve as a reminder that you need to take a look at your vehicle’s fluids periodically. Have you checked your vehicle’s fluids recently? Are your vehicle’s fluids ready for the chillier weather ahead?
We are going to provide a refresher on what the most important fluids are in your car, truck, or SUV and how often you should check them.
Are Your Vehicle’s Fluids Ready for Chillier Weather?
Your vehicle’s fluids play a crucial role in getting you to and from where you need to go. When the weather turns cooler, it’s a great time to check them, to ensure that they are ready for the chillier weather to come. In fact, to keep your car, truck, or SUV on the road, the vehicle’s fluids should be checked on a regular basis. If you haven’t done so lately, now is the perfect time to do so.
Are your vehicle’s fluids ready for chillier weather? Fall is generally a good time to check your car fluids as part of your vehicle maintenance routine. Here’s why:
- Preparing for Winter: Fall serves as a transition period between the hot summer months and the more brisk winter season. Checking your car fluids during this time allows you to ensure they are in optimal condition before facing potentially cold conditions (while we have less extreme weather here in Phoenix, there is still a shift in temperatures, making this important). It’s particularly important to check fluids like engine oil, coolant, and antifreeze, as they play a crucial role in protecting your engine from freezing or overheating.
- Post-Summer Maintenance: After the summer season, during which you might have taken road trips or driven in hot weather conditions, it’s a good idea to inspect and potentially change your vehicle’s fluids. Long trips and hot temperatures can put extra strain on your car’s fluids, so fall provides an opportunity to assess their condition and make any necessary adjustments.
- Seasonal Changes: Fall often brings cooler temperatures, and it’s important to ensure your vehicle’s fluids are properly adjusted to handle these changes. For example, if you’ve been using a lighter viscosity engine oil during summer, you might consider switching to a slightly heavier oil for fall to maintain proper lubrication as temperatures drop.
- Routine Maintenance: Checking your car fluids in fall can be part of your regular vehicle maintenance schedule. It allows you to address any issues, top up fluid levels if needed, and identify potential leaks or problems before they worsen. Regular fluid checks contribute to the overall health and performance of your vehicle.
What are the most important fluids for your vehicle and how often should they be checked?
- Engine Oil: Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. How often you should have an oil change depends on your vehicle and your driving habits; however, oil changes are an essential part of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and your oil should be checked regularly.
- Transmission Fluid: Transmission fluid allows for smooth shifting of gears in automatic and manual transmissions. Regular checks and, if needed, replacement of transmission fluid, are important for optimal performance and longevity of the transmission.
- Engine Coolant/Antifreeze: The cooling system in an engine helps it to maintain its internal temperatures and transfer excessive heat out of the engine. The cooling system uses coolant (antifreeze) to keep the engine cool in the warmer months and to prevent it from freezing in the colder months (making it a key, that you ensure this fluid is ready for the colder weather). Regular coolant level checks and flushing/replacement, as recommended by the manufacturer, are necessary to prevent engine damage.
- Brake Fluid: Brake fluid transmits the force applied to the brake pedal to the braking system’s wheels, enabling effective braking. Regular inspection and flushing/replacement of brake fluid are crucial for maintaining brake system efficiency and safety.
- Power Steering Fluid: Power steering fluid assists in smooth and easy steering by transmitting hydraulic pressure to the power steering system. Routine checks and, if necessary, topping up or replacement of power steering fluid are important for optimal steering performance.
- Differential Fluid: Differential fluid lubricates and cools the differential gears, which transfer power from the engine to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds. Regular inspection and, if recommended by the manufacturer, replacement of differential fluid are important for ensuring proper differential operation.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: Lastly, one of the most important vehicle fluids that need to be ready for the chilier weather, is your wiper fluid. How often you need to check your windshield washer fluid depends on how frequently you use your windshield wipers and the spray.
Remember to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations regarding fluid checks, maintenance intervals, and any manufacturer-specific considerations. By regularly checking and maintaining your vehicle fluids, you can promote the longevity, efficiency, and safety of your vehicle. Getting your vehicle’s fluids ready for chillier weather will ensure you can keep driving to and from football games, fall festivals, or whatever else you enjoy to do during this season.
At Advanced Transmissions & Emissions we can help with all of your Phoenix vehicle needs, including checking your fluids to ensure your vehicle stays in good working condition.
For your automotive needs in Phoenix, AZ, visit us or fill out our online form for service today.
