Service Fluids Info

Your car takes a lot of different fluids to keep going strong. You need to understand what types of fluids go into your car and how they work. If you’re not sure what kind of fluid goes where, don’t worry. We are here to help explain what the fluids are, and why they are necessary to keep your car running perfectly.

Antifreeze or Coolant

Antifreeze (coolant) helps to make sure your engine is up and running in conditions that are very hot –like South Florida, or very cold. Antifreeze works to raise the levels of heat your engine can take, so make sure your antifreeze level is checked when you come in for service, or if you are checking on your car prior to making a big trip

Motor Oil

Your engine has a lot of moving parts. If those parts aren’t lubricated, your engine might heat up too quickly. If engine oil isn’t replaced, your engine will overheat, and you’ll have to have it replaced. You need to be sure your motor oil is checked between every 5000 and every 7500 miles, depending on what kind of engine your car has.

Some newer cars take synthetic oil. Synthetic oil allows cars to go farther between oil changes. Many cars use synthetic oil because it is a better engine lubricant, and it is more efficient. This is especially true for cars that drive in cold weather.

Other Important Fluids

You may need to check and clean some parts of your car from time to time. For example, if your brakes are squeaking, you may want to spray them with brake cleaner. Brake cleaner removes residue from the brake system without messing up the action of your brake pads and rotors.

You may also need to clean your battery area with battery cleaner. You can use the battery cleaner on your battery cables, brackets and terminals. This is a great product to have on hand, especially if you are trying to jump start your car in the middle of the night

Automatic transmission fluid is also essential for the performance of your car. Your automatic transmission fluid operates much like your motor oil–it lubricates your transmission. Did you know that your transmission can have as many as 1000 parts? That means it is really important to keep fluid in your transmission. If you lose all of your transmission fluid, you’ll be facing an expensive repair.

When you’re ready for your next car, why not give us a call at 941-748-6510. You can also come by and see us on First Street in Bradenton, Florida.