The Importance of Fredericksburg Automotive fluids
The Importance of Car Fluids
Like your body, your vehicle needs clean fluids running through its system to keep all its other parts healthy. These fluids include: oil, transmission, brake, and power steering fluids and coolant. They are all important in their own ways and can keep you from spending thousands of unnecessary dollars on parts replacements!
Oil - Oil is the lubricant that keeps your engine's moving parts friction-free. Checking and changing your engine oil is probably the single most important thing you can do for your car. Oil should be light golden brown (not black) and should have a consistency slightly thicker than cooking oils.
Transmission Fluid – Transmission Fredericksburg VA fluid lubricates the constant changing of your car's gears, allowing your car to ride and shift smoothly. Transmission fluid should be free from debris and have a pinkish color. It should not have a burnt smell.
Brake Fluid - The tiny pedal that operates the tiny brakes that stop your giant car get their power through hydraulics. Your car's master cylinder must pump brake fluid to the brakes if you want to stop.
Power Steering - Much like your brakes, hydraulics make maneuvering even a large car easy. If you've ever parallel parked a car without power steering and your arm muscles ached the next day, you understand the importance of keeping the power steering operational.
Coolant - Coolant is the fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator. It is a fluid with a boiling point that is higher and a freezing point that is lower. This compensates for the temperature extremes that your engine will experience. The coolant should have a bright green color and have a thin water-like consistency.
You should consult an ASE-Certified Mechanic Fredericksburg for the recommended maintenance service intervals and call us if you have any questions regarding your vehicle. Call our shop today and we can discuss ways we can have your car running longer and safer for many years to come.
