Each vehicle model has different needs for the changing of its fluids, because each vehicle uses crucial fluids at a different rate. Your owner's manual will give you an idea of the intervals at which you should check your fluids, but it's better to check them more frequently to ensure the best performance from your car. If you're in doubt, Massey Hyundai can help!
Check Your Oil
Let the car cool down for an hour to ensure that the oil has drained back into the pan. Open the hood.
Pull out the dipstick, and then wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. Push it back in firmly, and then draw it out.
There will be a line or bump that indicates the proper level of oil to have in your engine. If the oil is below that line, you need more oil. Golden, transparent oil means that your oil is clean, while dark brown or black oil means you need to change it. Milky or cloudy oil means that you may have a coolant leak.
Transmission Fluid
This procedure should be performed when the engine is running and warmed up, with the car in neutral or park of course. The second dipstick will indicate where the transmission fluid is located. Perform the same procedure you did for the oil with this dipstick.
If the transmission fluid is reddish, it is fine. If it is brown or black or looks burnt, replace it. This fluid lubricates the transmission and needs to be clean.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid comes in a plastic reservoir or container. You should be able to see the fluid through the jug, and compare the level against plastic markings on the outside of the container.
If the brake fluid is low, have your vehicle inspected immediately. Brake fluid is not used up, and low brake fluid may indicate a leak that could compromise brake operation.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid is also stored in a plastic reservoir. Check it as you did the brake fluid, and top it up if the fluid doesn't come to the mark.
Coolant
The coolant is in a reservoir in the front of the engine. Ensure that the engine has cooled down before you check the coolant or the water in the radiator, as it may burn you otherwise. If your coolant levels are insufficient, be sure to top it up correctly.
Windshield Washer Fluid
This fluid does not affect the performance of your car, and can be topped up with water if necessary. Make sure that you use only wiper fluid with a low freezing point in cold weather.
Get Checked at Massey Hyundai
For more information about your car's regular maintenance needs, check with Massey Hyundai today. You can call us at (301) 739-6756, schedule an appointment online, or come see us at 1706 Massey Blvd, Hagerstown.
