When maintaining your vehicle, filters, and fluids often get overlooked. These might not seem like a big deal, but they are crucial in keeping your car running smoothly and extending its lifespan.
Filters: Your car has filters that keep dirt, debris, and other harmful particles from entering your engine or cabin. The air, oil, and cabin air filters are the most significant filters to watch. Over time, these filters can become clogged with debris, reducing airflow and decreasing performance. It’s recommended to check and replace your filters regularly.
Fluids: Your car also needs various fluids to operate properly, including oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids must be changed and topped off regularly to keep your car performing at its best. Old or low fluid levels can cause serious problems, such as overheating, transmission, or brake failure. Your owner’s manual should inform you how frequently you should be servicing your fluids.
Oil: The most critical fluid in your car is your engine oil. This lubricant keeps your engine running smoothly by reducing friction and wear. Over time, oil breaks down and can become contaminated with dirt and debris, reducing effectiveness. Changing your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is recommended, depending on your car’s needs. Neglecting to change your oil can cause severe engine damage and even lead to engine failure.
Coolant: Your engine needs coolant to prevent overheating. Coolant is a mix of water and antifreeze that circulates through your engine to keep it at a safe operating temperature. If your coolant levels are low or your mixture is off, you could experience engine overheating, causing significant damage. Your coolant should be replaced and topped off regularly.
Brakes: Your brake system also requires fluid to operate properly. Low brake fluid levels can cause your brakes to fail, a significant safety concern. If you notice any warning lights or your brakes feel soft or spongy, you should have your brake system checked immediately.
Filters and fluids are often overlooked in vehicle maintenance, but they are crucial to keeping your car running smoothly and preventing severe damage. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your filters are clean, your fluids are topped off, and you change them when needed. Neglecting these simple services could result in expensive repairs, premature vehicle wear, and even safety concerns. So, stay on top of your filter and fluid services to keep your vehicle running its best!