Not Just Oil: Why Changing Your Vehicle’s Fluids Can Save You Thousands
When it comes to car maintenance, most drivers only think of one thing: oil changes. Your car relies on several other fluids to keep it running smoothly and keep you safe, especially during Calgary’s harsh winters.
If you don’t pay attention to them, you’ll more than likely be facing some unwanted expensive repairs… or even a breakdown in the worst moments.
Here’s a quick guide to the fluids every driver should know about, and why checking on them regularly is so important.
Engine Oil
What it does: Lubricates engine parts, reduces friction and prevents premature wear of essential engine components.
When to change: Every 5000-10000 km, depending on your vehicle and driving habits. Change your oil at least once per year if you are not driving the vehicle much.
What will happen if you don’t: The oil breaks down over time and loses its ability to protect your engine. If you skip too many changes, you’re possibly risking reduced performance, costly repairs, or a complete engine failure.
2. Coolant (Antifreeze)
What it does: Regulates the engine temperature and prevents freezing in cold weather
When to change: Every 2-3 years (check your owner’s manual)
What will happen if you don’t: Old coolant can’t protect against overheating or freezing. It can also cause corrosion inside your engine, and that’s some damage that is not cheap to fix.
3. Transmission Fluid
What it does: Lubricates gears, keeps shifting smooth, and prevents overheating in your transmission.
When to change: Usually every 50,000-100,000km for manual transmissions, and every 100,000-150,000km for automatic transmissions.
What will happen if you don’t: Sluggish shifting, slipping gears, or total transmission failure which can cost thousands of dollars to repair or replace.
4. Brake Fluid
What it does: Transfers the force from your brake pedal to the brakes themselves.
When to change: Every 2-3 years
What will happen if you don’t: Moisture build up in brake fluid can cause corrosion and make your brakes feel soft or unresponsive, which is dangerous especially in winter road conditions.
5. Power Steering Fluid
What it does: Helps you steer smoothly and easily
When to change: Every 100,000-150,000km, or if steering starts feeling stiff
What will happen if you don’t: Low or dirty fluid can damage the steering pump and make your steering harder to control, especially at low speeds or in icy conditions.
6. Windshield Washer Fluid
What it does: If you haven’t already figured this one out, it keeps your windshield clear for safe driving.
When to change: Top up regularly and use a winter formula to prevent freezing.
What will happen if you don’t: Reduced visibility in snow, slush, or dirt. This can easily turn a safe drive into a dangerous one if not attended to.
Every fluid in your car plays a role in performance and safety. Checking each of these is a great way to avoid costly repairs, improve fuel efficiency, and make sure you’re safe on the road year-round.
If you can’t remember the last time your vehicle’s fluids were checked, stop by Harper’s Tire. We’ll inspect them all, top up what’s low, and let you know if anything needs changing, so you can drive away without any worries.