5 Car Fluid Refill Tips for Beginners
Whether you have just started driving or are finally getting around to understanding what’s under your car’s hood, checking fluid levels and adding STP transmission fluid is an excellent place to start. Without this maintenance, low fluid levels can easily compromise your vehicle’s performance and possibly lead to significant engine damage. These five refill tips for beginners will help ensure that doesn’t happen.
1. Inspect Fluids Before Adding
Getting a little carried away in your earnestness to keep everything topped off is easy. Automotive fluids do not last forever, so your manufacturer sets recommended intervals for flushing most systems. Whether you are curious about your engine oil, coolant, or brake fluid, take a few minutes to inspect it before adding anything to the reservoir.
A good rule is that fluids should be transparent or semi-transparent with no visible debris. If that is not the case, you may want to change it instead of adding more.
2. Utilize Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid lubricates components and prevents heat build-up, which is why proper service with high-quality products matters. If you are like many other car owners, you are unfamiliar with the ins and outs of your vehicle’s transmission; however, you should know how to check the transmission fluid.
3. Don’t Get Caught With a Low Battery
Car batteries are filled with an electrolyte solution, which is how they maintain a charge. If battery water levels fall too low, you may experience trouble using electrical components. Eventually, it will not generate enough power to turn over the engine.
When adding fluid to a battery, it’s a good idea to also check the connection. For example, changing the battery post shim can ensure your wires make solid contact with the terminals.
4. Power Steering Fluid Is A Game Changer
Thanks to power steering, the days of getting an upper body workout from turning your car at low speeds are long gone. However, a sudden loss of power steering can easily lead to an accident. Unfortunately, some vehicles are more likely than others to develop a power steering leak, often due to poor hose placement in the engine compartment or problems with the pump. Therefore, you should know how to check the levels, identify possible leaks, and add fluid as necessary.
5. Always Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
Recommended service intervals tend to be similar among manufacturers, but there are some slight differences. Make it a habit to check your owner’s manual for the most reliable advice on when to check, fill, and flush fluids. In addition to the recommended intervals, there are a few other times when you should check your engine fluids. These include:
- If you notice a stain in your regular parking spot
- When any engine systems are acting up
- During every oil change
Maintaining proper fluid levels and cleanliness is critical to keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you need a new battery maintainer Schumacher or synthetic motor oil, shop online for all the supplies you need to keep your car in top shape.