Regularly checking and maintaining your vehicle’s engine fluids is crucial for ensuring smooth performance, preventing breakdowns, and prolonging the life of your car. Here are the five most important engine fluids you should check regularly:

1. Engine Oil

• Why It’s Important: Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of your engine, reducing friction and wear. It also helps cool the engine and prevents dirt and debris from accumulating inside.
• How to Check: Use the dipstick in the engine compartment to check the oil level. Ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface, and the engine is cool. If the oil level is low or the oil appears dirty or dark, it’s time for a top-up or an oil change.

2. Coolant (Antifreeze)

• Why It’s Important: Coolant regulates the engine’s temperature, preventing it from overheating in hot weather and freezing in cold conditions. It also protects the engine’s components from corrosion.
• How to Check: Check the coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level should be between the "low" and "full" marks. If it’s low, top it up with the correct mixture of coolant and water (usually a 50/50 mix).

3. Brake Fluid

• Why It’s Important: Brake fluid transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the brake system, allowing you to stop the vehicle safely. Low or contaminated brake fluid can affect braking performance and compromise your safety.
• How to Check: The brake fluid reservoir is usually located near the back of the engine bay. Check the fluid level against the marks on the side of the reservoir. If it’s low or appears dark, it may need to be topped up or replaced.

4. Transmission Fluid

• Why It’s Important: Transmission fluid lubricates and cools the gears in both automatic and manual transmissions, ensuring smooth shifting and preventing overheating.
• How to Check: Transmission fluid is usually checked with a separate dipstick. For automatic transmissions, check the fluid while the engine is running and warm. Manual transmissions may need to be checked through a filler plug. Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause shifting issues and damage the transmission.

5. Power Steering Fluid

• Why It’s Important: Power steering fluid ensures smooth and easy steering by lubricating the steering system and reducing friction. Low power steering fluid can lead to difficulty steering and potential damage to the system.
• How to Check: Locate the power steering reservoir, usually near the front of the engine bay. Check the fluid level against the marks on the dipstick or side of the reservoir. If it’s low, top it up with the appropriate type of power steering fluid.

Regular Maintenance is Key

Keeping these five fluids at optimal levels helps maintain your vehicle's performance and safety. Be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner manual for specific recommendations on how and when to check and top up fluids. For professional fluid checks and maintenance, visit Bridgwater MOT Centre, where our expert technicians can ensure your vehicle’s fluids are always in top condition.