Image by Skica911 from Pixabay
Why We Always Remind Our Customers of Fluid Exchanges
It’s hard to get through a heavy workout without some water or an electrolyte drink (or for my less-active friends, it’s hard to get through a sporting event without something to sip on, right?). Your car also has various fluids that need to be constantly exchanged and replaced for your vehicle to run correctly.
Vehicle fluids prevent overheating, lubricate the parts of your vehicle, and keep your car running. We always remind our customers how important vehicle exchanges are, because they can determine your safety on the road.
What Is A Fluid Exchange?
Fluid exchange is pretty straightforward, though the technical term may make it sound complicated. Simply put, an “exchange” will happen between the old used-up fluids and new fluid for your vehicle. This should occur every so often, depending on what fluid is being replaced.
You know that you need to get gas every so many miles, and your oil needs to get changed every couple of months, but these are far from the only fluids you need to be worried about. The fluids in your car that you should be checking up on consistently are:
Transmission
Power steering
Brake fluid
Coolant
Let’s break down one by one why these fluids are so essential to your vehicle’s longevity.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid helps to lubricate and prevents grinding of bearings within your vehicle. It would help if you replaced the transmission fluid every 30,000-60,000 miles. You’ll know it’s time for exchange when you have trouble shifting gears.
Power Steering
Power steering fluid helps to connect your steering wheel and your wheels. The fluid supports lubrication so that you don’t need to struggle when turning your steering wheel. It would be best to replace the power steering fluid every 5 years or 50,000 miles, or earlier if needed. If you pop the hood and notice any discoloration or bubbles in your steering fluid, it’s time for a replacement. Additionally, if you’ve had trouble steering as of late, this is another sign of a much-needed exchange.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is transported to all of the wheels on your vehicle and powers your brakes. You cannot drive without brake fluid. Or, to be more precise, you can drive your vehicle, but you won’t be able to stop it! You’ll want to change your brake fluid every 4-5 years at the latest. Hopefully, you’ll see a dashboard light pop up, but if not, you’ll notice your brakes feel weird. You may also notice a smell.
Coolant
Coolant helps to regulate the temperature under your hood. As you can imagine, all of the systems working together in one tiny space can cause some heat. Coolant prevents your system from overheating. Change coolant every 30,000 miles.
Time For An Exchange?
Ready for a fluid exchange on your vehicle? Call us today to get some support! And for shop updates, don’t forget to Like our Facebook page (or our Complete Automotive South page). You can find Complete Automotive at 2238 E. Chestnut Expy, Springfield, MO, 65802, and Complete Automotive South at 3220 S Campbell Ave, Springfield, MO; our hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. Timely Professional Affordable Auto Service? Complete Automotive can help with that!