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Ignore These Car Fluids and Filters and You’ll Pay for Expensive Repairs

Posted on by Winnie
30
Jun

Keeping your car running smoothly and extending its lifespan requires more than just regular fuel fill-ups. One of the most essential yet often overlooked aspects of vehicle care is understanding and maintaining the critical fluids and filters in your car.

In this guide, we’ll break down the “5 Essential Fluids, 4 Filters, and 3 Vital Vehicle Fluids” every car owner should know about.

What are the 5 essential fluids on a car?

Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Each plays a specific role in keeping your car running efficiently and safely.

1. Engine Oil

Function: Lubricates engine parts, reduces friction, helps with cooling, and prevents corrosion.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 6 months or 3,000 to 5,000 miles (varies by vehicle and oil type).

Pro Tip: Always use the oil grade recommended in your owner’s manual and avoid mixing different oil brands.

2. Brake Fluid

Function: Transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake pads, ensuring responsive braking.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 2 years or approximately 25,000 miles.

Tip: Always use manufacturer-recommended brake fluid specifications to avoid braking system failure.

3. Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Function: Lubricates transmission gears, aids in cooling, and transmits hydraulic pressure.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 25,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Reminder: Check transmission fluid level and quality only when the vehicle has cooled down.

4. Power Steering Fluid

Function: Provides smooth and easy steering by lubricating and powering the steering system.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 2 to 3 years or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Note: Some modern vehicles now use electric power steering and may not require fluid.

5. Manual Transmission Gear Oil

Function: Lubricates gears inside the manual gearbox to reduce friction and prevent overheating.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on vehicle specifications.

What are the 4 filters on a car?

Filters prevent harmful debris and contaminants from damaging your engine and affecting cabin air quality.

1. Oil Filter

Function: Removes impurities from engine oil to protect engine components.

Replacement Interval: Replace with every oil change.

2. Air Filter

Function: Prevents dust and debris from entering the engine’s intake system.

Replacement Interval: Every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or more frequently in dusty environments.

3. Cabin Air Filter

Function: Filters dust, pollen, and pollutants from entering the vehicle interior.

Replacement Interval: Every 10,000 miles or every 6 months, especially if you drive in polluted or urban areas.

4. Fuel Filter

Function: Prevents dirt and water from reaching the engine through the fuel system.

Replacement Interval: Every 30,000 to 40,000 miles, though some vehicles use lifetime fuel filters.

What are the 3 vital vehicle fluids on a car?

These three fluids are often overlooked but play a crucial role in vehicle safety and performance.

1. Coolant/Antifreeze

Function: Regulates engine temperature and prevents overheating or freezing.

Recommended Replacement Interval: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Warning: Never mix different types of coolant to avoid chemical reactions and cooling system blockages.

2. Windshield Washer Fluid

Function: Keeps your windshield clean for optimal visibility.

Check Frequency: Regularly check the reservoir and refill as needed.

3. Battery Water (for non-maintenance-free batteries)

Function: Maintains proper electrolyte levels to ensure battery performance.

Check Frequency: Monthly or as indicated in your vehicle manual.

Note: Most modern batteries are maintenance-free and do not require water top-up.

Conclusion

The “Five Oils, Four Filters, and Three Fluids” are fundamental items in routine vehicle maintenance that should never be overlooked. Regular inspection and timely replacement not only significantly enhance driving comfort and performance but also effectively extend the overall lifespan of the vehicle, helping to avoid costly repairs caused by component aging or fluid deterioration.

As a car owner, it is recommended to:

  • Strictly follow the maintenance schedule outlined in your vehicle’s owner’s manual
  • Always choose original or certified fluids and filters to ensure optimal performance and safety
  • Adjust the maintenance interval according to actual driving conditions, such as frequent short trips, high temperatures, or heavy load usage

Developing scientific and standardized maintenance habits is the best way for every driver to take responsibility for their vehicle and ensure driving safety.

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