Getting your car ready for a long trip is not as easy as it might seem. There are many different things that you have to check and you want to be sure that you do this or you might end up in the middle of the road simply because you decided not to take your car to a jeep service and repair shop. While the best thing that you can do is to visit a good mechanic, there are some things that you can check yourself. Car fluids fall into that category.
One of the most important things to remember about your car is that it needs fluids to run. The vehicle has to be serviced at suitable intervals, all based on the mileage that the vehicle has. Always be sure that you keep an eye on mileage so you understand when it is time to change the fluids. Those fluids to always check are:
Oil
Every single car owner out there understands how important oil is for the engine. It is used in order to lubricate the moving parts, like crankshaft, camshaft and pistons. Movement is possible without friction.
You need to change oil every around 5,000 miles. If an oil change was made during that time, utilize the dipstick in order to see how much oil is left. When it is gritty, black or under a specific minimum, go to a mechanic as soon as possible.
Radiator Fluid
Much heat is produced by the engine as it runs. The radiator is what keeps it cool. For that, it needs radiator fluid, which is what you normally refer to as antifreeze or coolant. This fluid extracts heat and dissipates it all throughout the radiator. If coolant level is low, overheating happens. Always check coolant levels and make sure they are topped off whenever needed.
Power Steering Fluid
The modern car uses power steering in order to make it easier to turn the wheel. This is only possible with the use of power steering fluid. As the fluid becomes contaminated, the responsiveness of your steering wheel goes down. Every around 24,000 miles this fluid has to be changed.
Brake Fluid
Most people do not know this but it is fluid that compresses and that forces brake pads to activate and slow down the vehicle. In the event that the brake pedal shows more travel or is spongy, there is a big possibility brake fluid is contaminated. Whenever necessary, top off this fluid. It also has to be flushed every around 30,000 miles. While you’re checking out your brakes, it’s a great idea to check out your tires and wheels – revwerks is a great option if you want to upgrade them.
Transmission Fluid
If the transmission jerks when shifting, there is a problem with the transmission fluid. This is what will help the gears to smoothly mesh. Fortunately, the car’s transmission fluid does last a really long time. In many cases you will buy a car that promises lifetime transmission fluid. This is a little exaggerated. Generally, you have to change transmission fluid after driving 60,000 miles. If more than 100,000 miles passed, serious problems appear.
Windshield Fluid
If you do not want to have really dirty windshields and zero visibility as you drive, make sure that you add windshield fluid whenever it is not present anymore. This is really easy to do.
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