Nearly all vehicles on the road today have the same automotive fluids with the exception of those with fewer accessories. We don’t mean the same in terms of brand and weight; we mean the same as in every car, truck, and crossover or sports utility vehicle has motor oil in it. What automotive fluids will you find in your car? Here’s a list by ER Auto Care of the common fluids, so you know what needs changing during service visits.
AC Refrigerant
If you drive a vehicle with air conditioning, which usually comes standard these days, the system has environmentally-safe refrigerant in it. The refrigerant cools the air before it is pushed into your vehicle’s cabin through the vents. Warm air even though the AC on is a sign the refrigerant is low.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid presses the calipers up against the brake pads, which, in turn, presses the brake pads up against the rotors. It’s this motion that creates the kinetic energy the brakes need to stop your vehicle. If your brake pedal feels squishy, you might air bubbles in the brake fluid.
Engine Coolant
Engine coolant is found in the radiator system and it does just what its name suggests: it regulates the engine’s temperature by keeping it cooler. Antifreeze is also engine coolant; the two are intermixed in today’s formulas. If your car is overheating, you might have low coolant levels.
Motor Oil
It’s been said a million times but it bears repeating that motor oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine. Without oil, your engine parts will overheat, seize, and break down. In serious cases, the engine will be so damaged that it will have to replaced completely.
Transmission Fluid
The same thing can happen if your automobile’s transmission fluid is low or old and dirty. Some people call this fluid transmission oil because it lubricates the transmission. If you haven’t had your transmission oil changed in over 50,000 miles, it’s a good idea to have this done.
Windshield Cleaner
Finally, what would you do without that blue windshield cleaner that sprays all over the windshield after you’ve just driven through a bug swarm? This is a do-it-yourself fix unless there’s something wrong with the system. Check the reservoir and fill it when the cleaner is low.
The best way to know all of the automotive fluids in your car, truck, or C/SUV is to check your owner’s manual and then bring your vehicle into ER Auto Care in Plain City, OH, when it’s time for a service.
