The fluid levels you need to check regularly
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Are you like me, always forgetting to check the fluid levels in your car? Sometimes I forget until the lights flash. And I hate to admit this – but sometimes I even ignore the warning lights and just take my car to the mechanic. I just learned how dangerous this is. The simple act of checking your fluid levels can prevent you from breaking down when you are away from home
The fluid levels you need to check regularly
Check Your Oil
The truth is, without enough oil your car will seize up. If you don’t change your oil or keep enough oil in your car, you could actually ruin the entire engine.
To check your oil, make sure your vehicle is on level ground. Find the dipstick and wipe it off, Then return it and pull it back out. Make sure there is enough oil in the “good” level on the dipstick.
Antifreeze
According to Cartalk, antifreeze, or coolant, is “the fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator. It is also dissipated through the heat exchanger in the passenger compartment when you crank your heat in the winter.”
You need to make sure there is enough coolant. If you run out of coolant it can lead to catastrophic repercussions on your engine.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is vitally important to your brakes functioning. Without the fluid, the brakes won’t work. It’s that simple. A leak in your brake fluid is extremely dangerous, so keep an eye on the levels. In fact, according to Your Mechanic, here is how brakes work:
The driver depresses the brake pedal.
The pedal compresses a piston inside the brake caliper.
This compression increases the pressure inside the brake lines and sends the brake fluid into motion.
The pressure of the brake fluid then causes the brake rotors to squeeze down on brake pads, which then make contact with the wheels, slowing and eventually stopping wheel rotation and also the vehicle itself.
Keep an eye on your brake fluid so you can always stay safe on the road.
Windshield Washer Fluid
You might think that you can go awhile before refilling your windshield washer fluid level in your car, but don’t. A dirty windshield is a driving hazard, making it more difficult to see, especially at sunrise and sunset. Since you use it so often to clean your windshield, keep a close eye on the levels of the fluid. One handy tip – set a bi-weekly reminder on your phone to check the washer fluid levels.
Stay safe out there! Keep these fluid levels topped off so you avoid engine failure or even car accidents.
If you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned vehicle in the Bethesda, MD area, visit the Reedman Toll dealership our partners for this feature. You know the success of a smooth drive always lies with the reliability of the vehicle you own.
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