If you’re like me, you were once a person who just let the pros handle every aspect of vehicle maintenance, and never thought about looking under the hood… like, ever. Well, for me those days are over. I have decided that it’s important to know about what’s happening in my vehicle’s engine, because it is, and the first step that I’ve taken is to learn about all of the fluids in my engine. It’s really fascinating! Of course, when I first popped the hood to start my self-education, everything seemed like a weird mechanical spaghetti, but it’s starting to make sense to me. Take a look at my list of the fluids that are essential to your vehicle’s operation, and where they are located and what exactly they do!

• Oil

  1. Your oil cools your engine, lubricates moving parts, and keeps the moving parts clean.

  2. You should change it regularly based on dealer recommendation and check it monthly!

• Coolant

  1. Coolant regulates your vehicle’s temperature.

  2. It is located in a reservoir near the radiator.

  3. If the level is low (level is indicated on the reservoir) take the vehicle to the shop to get your coolant topped up.

• Power Steering Fluid

  1. This helps you steer the vehicle.

  2. It’s located in a reservoir at the base of your windshield.

  3. Do the same as above, if the level is low take your vehicle to the shop to get the fluid topped up.

• Brake Fluid

  1. Brake fluid helps braking mechanisms work properly.

  2. If the level is chronically low, your brakes could be wearing out.

• Windshield Washer Fluid

  1. As you probably know, this helps clean your windshield of dust, debris, bug guts, etc.

  2. If you run out, get more at your local gas station and just refill the clearly labeled tank.