Virtually all motorists know it’s important to regularly change the motor oil in their vehicles. According to AAA, vehicles should undergo a motor oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, many motorists unfortunately ignore other fluids’ flush-and-fill needs. In case you are among those who only think about an oil change, here are four fluids in your vehicle that you should have flushed regularly.
1. Radiator and Engine Coolant
The second most common fluid flush-and-fill service is the coolant that helps the engine stay at an optimal temperature and stops it from overheating or freezing up during extreme weather. Most automakers recommend flushing and filling the coolant every two years, which removes any mineral deposits and replaces the old coolant that is losing its ability to prevent freezing or overheating as it ages. It’s also important to check the hoses and hose clamps to make sure they are in good shape and will last for many more miles.
2. Transmission and Differential Fluids
The transmission and differential are two very important parts of the drivetrain and require fluid to keep the internal gears in each lubricated. The transmission fluid and differential fluid often are overlooked but still require occasional maintenance and eventually a complete flush to remove the old fluid and replace it with new fluid. The new fluid will keep the transmission and differential doing their respective jobs without causing a costly breakdown and repair.
3. Brake Fluid
The master cylinder distributes the brake fluid to each disc or drum brake on the wheels. The fluid is hygroscopic, which means it removes moisture from the air. That moisture usually collects inside the brake calipers or inside the brake drums on the rear wheels. Brake fluid also loses its viscosity over time and needs to be replaced. Each brake line also needs to be bled to remove all the old and contaminated fluid while replacing it with new and clean fluid.
4. Power Steering Fluid
Power steering makes virtually any vehicle drivable regardless of who is behind the wheel. When the power steering fluid is low or goes bad, the power steering is less effective, which makes it harder to steer and drive safely. Flushing and filling the fluid will restore full power steering, improve handling, and make a vehicle safer to drive.
You can call or visit our automotive facility at Auto Diagnostic & Repair Center for an oil change service and have our technicians flush and fill other fluids to keep your vehicle in good shape. Contact us today to get started!