Learn More About the Fluids in Your Car's Engine

Every vehicle is different, but they are all fundamentally made up of the same components. Many of the systems in your car use extra fluids that you will need to add to the circuits. The purpose of these can range from something incredibly simple, like washing fluid for your windscreen, to motor oil, which plays a variety of complex and essential roles in your car’s function. But, do you know how to locate all of these fluid ports? Do you know how to check, change and refresh them yourself? If you answered ‘No’ to these questions, help is at hand! In this month's blog, the experts at All Service Oil have put together a foolproof guide to understanding all the fluids that go into your car.

Coolant

Coolant is a specialized liquid, scientifically developed to have a higher boiling point and lower freezing point than water. This makes it ideal for use in your vehicle’s cooling system. It is stored in a reservoir and passed through the engine to collect and disperse the heat produced by the motor’s action. If your engine does not have enough coolant in its system, it can overheat, risking a breakdown and even irreparable damage to the engine. You can locate your coolant reservoir by looking in your owner's manual. Check the fluid level by removing the cap and taking a look inside. If necessary, add more coolant liquid. Another good way of reducing the amount of heat building up in your engine is by investing in a superior-quality synthetic motor oil and giving your engine a synthetic oil change. This optimizes lubrication, reducing friction and heat build-up. Call your local Amsoil Dealer – All Service Oil today at (763) 257-3130 for more information about the right product for your synthetic oil change and reap the benefits.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is important for the healthy functioning of your vehicle’s gears. Levels can be tested using a dipstick. Consult your owner’s manual to find out where to find the fluid port in your particular vehicle. Next, take out the dipstick and clean it. Replace it and remove it again to accurately test the fluid level. Your user manual will also contain details about what is considered an ideal level for your transmission fluid. Compare the level detected on the dipstick to the details in your manual, and if necessary add more transmission fluid using a funnel.

Brake Fluid

Brake Fluid is an extremely important component of the braking system. It is used to help transfer force into pressure and amplifies braking force. Without brake fluid, your brakes can stop functioning altogether, so it’s important to regularly check that your brake fluid levels are adequate. Most reservoirs can be identified easily upon lifting the hood as they have a marking that reads ‘brake fluid.' However, if this is not the case, consult your owner’s manual for a description of where to locate the reservoir. Brake fluid can be added directly to the reservoir, but should not need to be topped up frequently. If you have noticed that your brake fluid is disappearing more quickly than you think it should, take your car to qualified mechanic to be serviced as this is potentially very dangerous.

Engine Oil

Engine Oil is essential for the smooth functioning of any motor. It provides lubrication so that small components can slide over each other without creating heat and friction. It also protects against damage caused by wear and rust, so it keeps your engine functioning for as long as possible. To locate your engine oil port, consult your manual. When you have located the dipstick, you should remove and clean it, then replace it and remove it again. You can determine the oil level by looking at the ridges or grooves on the side of the stick. If necessary, add more oil to the circuit. You should also pay attention to the color and consistency of the oil - healthy, new engine oil should be clear and golden in color. If yours is darker, it’s probably time to change it. If it looks foamy, it could be contaminated with coolant, and you should ask a mechanic to look at the system.

Boost Your Engine Performance with a Synthetic Oil Change in Andover

The best way to optimize the performance and durability of your engine is by upgrading to a synthetic engine oil. Synthetic oils continue to function at a wider range of temperatures than conventional oils, they provide better protection against corrosion, and can even increase your fuel economy. Call your local AMSOIL Dealer – All Service Oil, today at (763) 257-3130, to find out which product is right for your synthetic oil change