Six Different Types of Vehicle Fluids That You Should Check

If you are looking used car, you will probably search for the right dealership and purchase one. Even though most people consider checking the vehicle in whole to determine whether or not it is in tip-top shape, not everyone considers checking the fluids of the vehicle. This is especially true when it comes to buyers who aren’t mechanically inclined. 

And besides, without proper knowledge, there is only so much you can do to determine whether or not all the fluids in the vehicle you wish to purchase are properly maintained. 

So, to help you with this dilemma, we are drafting this blog with information on six different types of acar fluids and their function in the vehicle. We hope this blog can help you if you are looking used car to purchase in the market. 

1- Oil

Motor oil is something every person is aware of. You don’t have to be an expert to determine it. 

The function of motor oil is to keep the vehicle engine well lubricated for smooth and consistent operation. Lower oil levels in a vehicle can result in dangerous and costly engine damage. 

When buying a used vehicle, check for the motor oil and fill/replace it if necessary. Also, don’t forget to change the oil regularly every six months down the line. 

2- Radiator fluid

Radiator fluid is responsible for keeping the engine from being overheated. It draws the heat from the engine and disperses it over the radiator and eventually into the atmosphere. 

With low radiator fluid, a vehicle is prone to overheating, resulting in a damaged engine. 

While buying a used vehicle, you might want to pop the hood to come across the radiator fluid tank in the middle front. Eyeball the coolant levels. If the fluid is clearly visible, you are good to go. 

3- Transmission Fluid

As the name suggests, transmission fluid helps with lubrication of transmission. 

You can request the seller to show you the level of transmission fluid using a dipstick method. If the fluid goes above the notch, it indicates safe levels of fluid in the vehicle. If the fluid doesn’t reach the notch, you might want to request a transmission fluid refill or fill it on your own if the deal is finalized.

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4- Brake Fluid 

Brake fluids are responsible for keeping the hydraulics of your vehicles performing effectively. The low brake fluid in the vehicle can result in poor performance and even result in potentially fatal situations. Therefore, it is important to check whether or not the vehicle you wish to purchase has proper brake fluids before you drive it off. 

You should find the brake fluid reservoir in the engine compartment’s back. It is essential that you clean the area before popping the tank open because contaminants entering the tank can compromise the braking performance.

5- Windshield Washer Fluid

Not many vehicle owners realize this, but windshield washer fluid is quite important. First, it helps in keeping the windshield clean from dirt, dust and other debris. Second, it prevents you from any obscured vision that could eventually lead to fatal situations. 

You can pop the hood of the vehicle and look for a transparent container with “washer” or “windshield” written on it. The container is typically filled with blue fluid. You can unscrew the cap with a twist and fill the anti-grime windshield washer fluid to fill the reservoir completely.

6- Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluids help in keeping the power steering system well lubricated for optimum performance. With low power steering fluid, the steering wheel can judder and shift, resulting in challenging operation. 

Again, pop the hood and check for the power steering fluid tank. It is typically located on the passenger side of the vehicle and has “steering,” written over it. You should be able to see the level of fluid without opening if the container is transparent. 

Or, use a dipstick here to determine the level. 

Signing off

You may not be the professional in determining a perfectly operating vehicle, but checking for the above-mentioned fluids if you are looking used car to purchase in the market, can make a huge difference.

So, stop feeling intimidated and go ahead with the fluid inspection of the vehicle in question to ensure you purchase only the best!