The 6 Vital Car Fluids You Should Be Aware Of

You're likely to have heard the term 'fluid top-up' every time you've been interested in getting a service. At this point, a fluid top-up is almost synonymous with a major service. However, not everyone delves into what fluids get topped-up, and just how vital these fluids actually are.  As the resident car guru, we're here to change that for you. Continue reading this post to know more about what car fluids are vital, what purpose they serve in your vehicle's functioning, and when to get them topped up.   

What does fluid top off mean? 

Before we get started with the nitty-gritty, let's understand what the term 'fluid top off' means. To 'top-off' or 'top-up' fluid means bringing the liquid to an optimal level, as recommended by the manufacturer. The service centre should have a gauge to indicate when the fluid is at an ideal level.  The confusion arises when you look at all the vital fluids. Engine oil is considered to be one such fluid. However, engine oil cannot just be topped off. As a rule of thumb, any existing fluid that's considered as an 'oil' has to be flushed out first.  Other fluids, such as the coolant and the windscreen washer fluid can simply be topped up. There are still instances where any fluid must be flushed out and replaced. This is necessary if it has been in the vehicle for too long, with dust and contaminant build up over time.  

How often do you need to top up brake fluid? 

On a general level, about every 2 years. Based on how your brakes are performing, you should get your brake fluid flushed out and refilled. This can be done every 2 years, or per 40,000km travelled.   

What are the 6 vital fluids for your car?  

Engine oil  

This one's relatively well-known. It functions as the blood for your vehicle's heart, which is the engine. Without proper engine oil, your car would simply cease to function.  It helps to reduce the friction between the myriad of moving parts within the engine console. As a result, your car performs at an ideal standard.  The frequency of getting an oil change has changed a lot over the last couple of years. For modern standards, you're advised to change your oil between every 8,000km – 12,000km. It's best practice to consult a brand specialist, or the owner's manual to know what works best for your car.  

Brake fluid 

Your brake fluid is as essential for your brakes' performance, as engine oil is for your engine. The fluid serves a vital role since it applies pressure on your brake pads against the brake disc's movement, allowing the car to slow down. As we covered earlier, your brake fluids can be refilled every 2 years or so. If the oil isn't contaminated, you can get a top-up within the 2 years. 

Coolant 

All the energy produced by your engine turns to heat. Without the coolant, the temperature may extend to dangerous levels, resulting in significant damage. Coolant helps to absorb all this residual heat and ensure your engine runs in optimal temperature levels.  Modern car standards allow you to change your coolant every 5 years, as newer cars have a longer coolant lifetime.  

Transmission oil 

Transmission oil or gear oil serves as a lubricant for the myriad of parts in your gearbox. As you change gears, various functions take place within the gearbox console.  Without adequate and clean gear oil, your gear is subjected to high temperatures, increased friction, and corrosion.  Our resident service experts suggest changing your transmission oil after every 40,000km – 60,000km. 

Power steering fluid 

Imagine driving a car with a stiff steering wheel that doesn't move smoothly. That's what having low power steering fluid feels like.  Power steering fluid serves multiple functions. It helps to give you control and balance of your steering wheel and adds power to the steering system.  You're recommended to change your power steering fluid every 2 years, or at every 80,000km. 

Windscreen washer fluid 

This one's something we're all familiar with. While we don't really consider it a 'vital' fluid, it still serves a rather important function.  In a region like ours, we're always prone to the odd sandstorm. The windscreen washer fluid is imperative in such cases. If you use the wipers without the liquid, it could result in scratches and other damages to your windshield.  The refilling rate is mostly dictated by your usage of the fluid. As a general rule, you should get it refilled at every service interval.   

Choose ServiceMyCar for all your maintenance needs 

So, you're aware of all the vital fluids for your car. Now you're probably wondering, where do I get them changed? ServiceMyCar has already got you covered. We've designed our BMW Repair Major package to include a top-up for all these fluids, and we do so much more.  Make a hassle-free booking on the ServiceMyCar app or the website now.