Filled and fueled, running like a well-oiled machine. Look at your car; it's smiling back at you, happy to be taken on another journey. But are you giving your car what it needs to keep running? Sure, gasoline goes in the tank, and oil gets changed every few months or so, but other fluids play just as crucial of a role in your car's overall health.

Cumberland Auto Centre is here to give you the lowdown on the essential fluids your car needs to function. Car health issues make us sick to our stomachs, so let's get started!

Engine Oil:

This one's a no-brainer - oil is crucial for keeping your engine running smoothly. It coats and protects all of the moving parts inside the engine and helps prevent them from grinding against each other and wearing down. Oil also helps dissipate heat from the engine, so it needs to be replaced regularly.

Most carmakers recommend an oil change every 3000-5000 kilometers, but this can vary depending on your make and model of car, as well as the type of oil you're using. Be sure to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Coolant:

Like humans, cars need fluids to keep their internal temperatures regulated. Coolant helps keep things cool by drawing heat away from the engine and dissipating it into the air. It also helps prevent corrosion and freezing inside the cooling system.

You should check your coolant level regularly and top it up as needed - most carmakers recommend doing this every time you change your oil.

If your car has a coolant leak, be sure to address it as soon as possible - a low coolant level can damage the engine and lead to overheating.

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Your windshield washer fluid helps keep your windshield clean and clear while you're driving. It also helps remove any dead bugs or dirt that may have accumulated on the glass.

You should regularly check your windshield washer fluid level and top it up if needed. Most carmakers recommend doing this every time you fill up your gas tank.

Brake Fluid:

Don't blame your car for not stopping when you hit the brakes - it may be because your brake fluid is low. Your car's brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps transfer the force from your foot on the pedal to the brakes themselves.

Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated and needs to be replaced. Depending on your driving habits, you may need to replace your brake fluid every few years.

If you notice any leaks, have your brakes checked immediately by a professional.

Takeaway:

It's no surprise that your car needs fluids to function properly. What might be surprising is how often these fluids need to be changed or checked. Be sure to check your owner's manual for specific recommendations on when to change or check each fluid.

If you notice any leaks, don't hesitate to bring your car in to Cumberland Auto Centre, serving Smithville, TN, for a tune-up. Better safe than sorry!

Please schedule a service before your poor car dries up on you.