A Fluid Situation (Check Fluid Levels)

There’s one fluid in your car you are always careful to keep at a certain level: the fuel. If you don’t have fuel, you’re not going anywhere. Your vehicle has other fluids which are vitally important to proper and safe operation, too. So, here’s a “level” headed approach to those “other” fluids.

Windshield washer fluid. OK, this is one you probably know about. You certainly miss it when it runs out. You find yourself trying to clean your windshield with the wipers but you need a little liquid help. Unless you live in an area that requires you to use an awful lot of windshield washer fluid, one fill-up can often last between oil changes. Modern vehicles have large enough windshield washer fluid reservoirs to keep you going for quite a while.

Engine Coolant. Here’s another fluid you need to keep your engine running properly. You need it to keep the engine running at the proper temperature. Plus, you’ll need it for heat when the temperature gets chilly outside.

Brake Fluid. You may have heard of hydraulic brakes. Hydraulic refers to the fluid and is one of the key reasons your brakes work. Levels should be checked regularly and, like power steering fluid, if you’re losing brake fluid, a technician needs to find out why so you can get the issue repaired and maintain your stopping ability.