Top 5 essential car fluids you must regularly check

Maintaining your vehicle’s performance and longevity goes beyond its exterior appearance.

While a car may shine with a fresh wash and polish, it’s the fluids under the hood that truly matter. Much like the human body, certain fluids are essential for your car’s optimal function. If your vehicle becomes parched of these vital fluids, it can come to an abrupt halt, leading to costly damage.

The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), an affiliate of the Retail Motor Industry (RMI), emphasises that having an accredited workshop is crucial for addressing fluid levels during scheduled services.

The MIWA chairperson, Dewald Ranft, advises, “Unless you’re a mechanic, you may not know the first thing about changing oil, brake and other fluids. Five specific fluids need regular checks to ensure your vehicle performs optimally and keeps you safe on the road. While some are simple to replenish yourself with your vehicle manual as a guide, having a trained workshop technician handle this is advisable.”

Here are the five essential fluids that you should check regularly and why:

• Engine oil: Modern cars no longer follow fixed oil change intervals. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts, reducing friction and regulating temperature. It also plays a significant role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. Changing your oil prevents excessive friction, heat and pressure, ensuring your engine’s longevity.
• Gearbox oil: Neglecting gearbox oil can result in costly repairs. It prevents metal-to-metal contact, ensuring smooth gear changes and cooling the gearbox. It also protects internal components from wear and heat damage.
• Antifreeze: Antifreeze prevents freezing and overheating of the engine and radiator. It acts as a lubricant for components it comes into contact with, such as the water pump.
• Brake fluid: Brake fluid is crucial for your safety. It indicates the wear of brake pads and must be used as specified for your vehicle.
• Power-steering fluid: This fluid enhances your steering system’s performance and longevity. Neglecting it can lead to difficulties in steering and costly repairs.

In addition to these fluids, Ranft recommends keeping the windscreen washer fluid topped up for clear visibility. Regularly checking and adhering to manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules can prevent expensive repairs and breakdowns.

Prioritise fluid maintenance to ensure your car runs smoothly and reliably, ensuring your safety on the road.

Source: Cathy Findley PR