What fluids should you routinely check under the hood?
The six car fluids that you should check on a regular basis are engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid (if you drive an automatic), coolant (AKA, antifreeze), power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
What should you check under the hood?
- Engine oil level. This is the most important under-hood check you can do.
- Transmission fluid. Most automatic transmissions should be checked while the engine is running.
- Brake fluid.
- Power steering fluid.
- Coolant (Antifreeze) level.
- Battery.
- Windshield washer solvent.
- Belts & Hoses.
What should I do to check the fluid level in my car?
Some cars have sealed transmissions that require special procedures to check the fluid level. With the engine idling and the transmission at full operating temperature, set the parking brake and apply the foot brake.
What to do if your transmission fluid level is below the upper Mark?
If the level is at or below the lower mark, add oil to raise the level to the upper mark. On most cars, one quart of oil will raise the level from the lower to the upper mark. Automatic transmission fluid transfers power, lubricates and keeps seals flexible.
What should the fluid level be on a steering wheel?
If the level is near or below the lower mark, add enough fluid to reach the appropriate upper mark. Some cars have a remotely mounted translucent plastic power steering fluid with high and low marking molded into it. When the fluid is at operating temperature its level should be between the two markings.
What should the fluid level be in a washer?
When the fluid is at operating temperature its level should be between the two markings. All modern cars have translucent plastic washer fluid reservoirs. If the fluid level is low, remove the cap and fill the reservoir to the top.