Published: January 22, 2025
Vehicle fluids require more attention than the typical 5,000- to 10,000-mile service intervals, even with maintenance reminder systems in place.
Incorrect fluid levels can lead to breakdowns or serious damage. To keep your car in top condition, here’s how to monitor different types of fluids in a car between tune-up services.
To ensure accurate automotive fluid checks and maintain your vehicle’s health, follow these essential tips:
By following these steps, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Engine oil lubricates moving parts while cooling and cleaning internal engine parts. Insufficient oil can cause major engine damage. Regularly checking and changing your engine oil is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s health.
To check the oil level:
1. Ensure vehicle is parked on a level surface.
2. Make sure the engine is cold and not running.
3. Raise the hood and pull the oil dipstick out of its tube.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean with a cloth and insert it fully back into its tube.
5. Remove the dipstick and check that the oil level is between the upper and lower level markings.
If the level is at or below the lower mark, add oil to raise the level to the upper mark. Use only the type specified for your vehicle. On most cars, one quart of oil will raise the level from the lower to the upper mark.
Automatic transmission fluid transfers power, lubricates and keeps seals flexible. Some cars have sealed transmissions that require special procedures to check the fluid level.
To check the level of your transmission fluid with a dipstick:
1. Ensure vehicle is parked on a level surface.
2. Start the engine and let it idle until the transmission reaches full operating temperature. This usually takes a few minutes.
3. Set the parking brake and apply the parking brake.
4. Cycle the shifter through each gear position for a few seconds, then put the transmission in Neutral or Park, as specified in your owner’s manual.
From here, follow the same steps as checking engine oil. However, note that the distance between the upper and lower level markings on the dipstick is usually equivalent to one pint of fluid. Use only the transmission fluid specified for your vehicle.
Engine coolant, also known as antifreeze, prevents engine freeze-up in winter, raises the coolant's boiling point in summer, and protects against rust and corrosion year-round.
To check the coolant level:
1. Ensure vehicle is parked on a level surface.
2. Raise the hood and locate the reservoir for the coolant recovery system. This is usually a translucent plastic container mounted near the radiator or on one of the inner fender panels.
3. Look for the upper (hot) and lower (cold) level markings on the reservoir.
4. If the fluid level is below the lower mark, add coolant until it reaches that point, but not higher. Use only the coolant type specified for your vehicle.
Good auto service means maintaining the amount of brake fluid at a safe level. Brake fluid transmits the force that brings your car to a safe, sure stop. It also lubricates and protects the brake hydraulic components.
To check the brake fluid level:
1. Raise the hood and locate the brake fluid reservoir, usually located atop the master cylinder at the rear of the engine compartment on the driver’s side.
2. Look at the translucent reservoir and verify if the fluid level is between the upper and lower markings.
3. Add brake fluid to reach the proper level. Use only the type specified for your vehicle.
If the level is near, at or below the lower mark, have an auto repair shop inspect the brake system for wear or leaks as soon as possible.
Power steering fluid transmits hydraulic pressure and helps protect rubber hoses and seals in the system.
To check the power steering fluid level:
1. Ensure the engine is not running.
2. If the fluid reservoir is part of the pump, remove the cap/dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth.
Insert it fully back into the reservoir, then remove it and check that the fluid level is between the upper and lower level markings. There may be two sets of marks, one if the fluid is hot, and the other if it is cold.
3. If the level is near or below the lower mark, add fluid until it reaches the appropriate upper mark. Use only the type specified for your vehicle.
Some cars have a remotely mounted translucent plastic power steering fluid with high and low markings molded into it. When the fluid is at operating temperature, its level should be between the two markings.
All modern cars have translucent plastic washer fluid reservoirs. If the fluid level is low:
1. Remove the cap and fill the reservoir to the top.
2. Use a bug-removing washer fluid in summer and a solution with antifreeze properties in winter if you live where temperatures drop below freezing.
Remember to schedule regular maintenance for your vehicle, including routine car fluid check-ups. Staying proactive about your car's health can help extend its life. AAA Auto Repair connects you to nearly 7,000 Approved Auto Repair facilities, all meeting high standards for appearance, technician certification, insurance and customer satisfaction.
AAA members receive special benefits that include auto repair discounts, an extended 24-month/24,000-mile parts and labor warranty and AAA assistance in resolving repair-related issues.
Exclusive Deals for AAA Members
Unlock Member-Only Ticket Savings
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!