In order to function correctly and at the same time prevent the occurrence of very expensive problems, before the cold season it is recommended to do a general overhaul of the car. Here are the fluids that should be checked every fall and which ones must be replaced.
Specialists recommend that every autumn and spring, drivers do a general overhaul of the car. Basically, it is a check before the arrival of the cold season, respectively the warm one.
On this occasion, certain liquids, essential for the proper functioning of the car, must be checked.
What fluids should be checked every fall in all cars?
The most important fluids to check every fall are:
- engine oil;
- antifreeze;
- brake fluid;
- transmission oil;
- power steering fluid;
- freon.
All these fluids are essential for the car to function properly and provide the comfort necessary for safe driving.
Most of them can be checked by drivers, because they are visible in the engine compartment. But even these should be checked by the mechanic when he does the autumn overhaul.
Engine oil and transmission oil
Engine oil it is essential for engine operation. The older it is, the less effective it is. This fluid ensures the lubrication of the metal components inside the engine.
It is recommended that it be checked once every few weeks with the help of the check rod. We can see the oil level in the engine, its color and viscosity.
Most specialists recommend replacing engine oil after 10,000 – 15,000 kilometers. Or once a year if you haven’t covered that distance.
Transmission oil it has as important a role as the engine. It ensures the lubrication of the metal components inside the gearbox. Only, in the case of the transmission, the oil is only lost in the event of a leak.
In the case of cars with a classic automatic transmission (torque converter), checking the oil level is done by means of a dipstick and a plug located in the engine compartment. For the others, the check can be done in a specialized workshop.
The transmission oil is changed at the intervals specified by the manufacturer. Generally, every 50,000 km or after 3 years.
Power steering fluid and brake fluid
Brake fluid it is essential, as the name suggests, to operate the car’s brakes. Without it, the braking system is compromised.
The level of this fluid should be checked once every few months. But with the help of a flashlight, to avoid opening the cover. If air gets into the system, it can affect braking efficiency over time.
It is recommended to replace the brake fluid every 2 years.
Power steering fluid it is only checked on cars that have a hydraulic assist system. Most modern cars are now equipped with electric power steering.
The level of this fluid is periodically checked using the markings on the expansion tank. The replacement is recommended to be done every 2 years.
Antifreeze and freon
Antifreeze (coolant) has the role of reducing the temperature of the engine. This fluid circulates between the engine and the radiator, having the role of absorbing the heat resulting from the combustion of the fuel. It also lubricates the cooling system and water pump.
The level of antifreeze should be checked, as with engine oil, about once a month.
Be careful, however, because opening the cover should only be done when the engine is cold. Otherwise you risk severe burns from the very hot steam.
Antifreeze is generally replaced at 2-3 year intervals, but in the case of SLLC (Super Long Life) types, replacement can be done after 5 years.
Freon it is a fluid necessary for the operation of the car’s air conditioning and climate control system.
This is necessary not only in summer, but also in autumn and winter. Because it prevents the formation of condensation inside the car, so the windows will not fog up.
That is why it is essential that this freon tank is charged to the optimal level, recommended by the car manufacturer.
Source: www.promotor.ro
