Many people know that keeping cars filled with oil is necessary for proper operation. However, your car has many other fluids that play critical roles but often get forgotten. If you’re proactive with car maintenance, you can get more use out of it over time. Pay attention to these critical fluids, so you know when an auto mechanic should replace them.

What Fluids Are Often Overlooked?

In addition to oil, transmission fluid keeps the gears in the transmission lubricated so that shifting doesn’t damage your transmission. It lasts for years, causing many drivers to forget about checking it. Similarly, coolant has a long life span, but in older cars, it may require more frequent changes.

Power steering fluid is necessary for the hydraulics that moves the wheel, and without it, you must work harder to turn. Your brakes also require hydraulic Brake fluid to magnify the force of your foot on the pedal and slow your wheels.

Why & How Should You Maintain Them?

While it’s easy to check your car’s oil levels, these fluids are harder to reach, and an amateur could cause problems. Instead, keep a log in your owner’s manual that details when you’ve had essential fluids like transmission and coolant checked by a professional auto mechanic.

The most significant benefit of keeping a close eye on fluids is a longer car life span. If transmission fluid isn’t flushed and replaced when necessary, the transmission life will be shortened. For coolant, if a leak develops without your knowledge, your engine could overheat and breakdown. Old or decayed brake fluid can damage expensive anti lock brake systems and modern complex brake calipers.  

Basically, if you want to keep you vehicle running longer, these often forgotten fluids need attention.  

Keep the fluids in your car current by visiting Gearheads Auto Service in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. For over 12 years, their ASE-certified auto mechanics have provided maintenance, tuneups, and repairs for many makes and models. To schedule a repair, call (330) 929-0200, and learn more about their auto mechanic services online.