So you know you need to add fuel to your car when the tank gets low, and you probably know your oil needs to be changed every few thousand miles. However, there are other essential fluids that help your engine run smoothly. Here are the other levels you need to check regularly.

Washer Fluid

You might only use a little bit of it every time you spray your windshield with wiper fluid, but eventually the tank will run dry if you don’t top it off. Washer fluid uses special formulas to cut through the gunk that can cake the glass, so it’s essential that you always make sure you have enough.

Coolant

Coolant makes sure your engine doesn’t overheat, burn oil, or warp the cylinders, so it’s important to say the least. Coolant gets dirty over time and can also leak if your radiator is old or damaged, so eventually it will need to be replaced.

Transmission Fluid

Your transmission needs lubricant to keep the gears moving, but after a few million gear shifts, it fills up with metal scrapings and needs replacing. Usually this happens every 30,000 miles, but you should check your user’s manual to find out for sure and make sure your mechanic inspects the transmission fluid regularly.

Your engine also uses other fluids for the power steering and brakes. Both are fluids you shouldn’t need to change very often, but it’s important to do so when you reach the milestones laid out by the manufacturer.

 

 

 

 

 

Image via Flickr by James Case

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