If you have just purchased a pre-used vehicle in Calgary, it’s important to keep up with regular maintenance to ensure its proper functioning, especially considering the challenging weather conditions in the region. One crucial part of vehicle maintenance is regularly checking and maintaining the fluids.

Let’s highlight five essential fluids you should routinely check in your used vehicle.

1. Engine Oil

Engine oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle. It lubricates various engine components and minimizes friction, ensuring smooth operation. To check your engine oil, park your vehicle on a level surface and switch off the engine. After waiting for a while to allow the oil to settle, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and pull it out again to check the level.

The oil should be between the two marks on the dipstick. Also, oil color provides valuable insights. Fresh oil is amber but darkens with use. If it’s too dark, it’s time for an oil change.

2. Brake Fluid

Maintaining your brake fluid is crucial for driving safety. This hygroscopic fluid absorbs moisture over time, and too much moisture may lower its boiling point, affecting braking efficiency.

To check, ensure the fluid level is between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines on your brake fluid reservoir. It should be clear or amber in color. If it appears darker or has debris floating, get the brake fluid replaced.

3. Coolant

In Calgary’s freezing winters and warm summers, maintaining an effective coolant system is essential. Coolant absorbs heat from the engine and dissipates it through the radiator, preventing overheating. To check, ensure the engine is cool, then open the coolant reservoir.

The fluid in used vehicles Calgary NW should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” markers. If it’s low, add a mix of antifreeze and water. Regularly check coolant strength to ensure it can withstand Calgary’s freezing temperatures.

4. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid lubricates your vehicle’s transmission, ensuring smooth gear shifts, and also helps cool the transmission system. Unlike engine oil, transmission fluid doesn’t need regular replacement but should be checked monthly.

When checking, the engine should be running, and the transmission fluid should be checked through its dipstick, like engine oil. Red or green and translucent is the characteristic color of healthy transmission fluid. If it’s brown or black, it’s time for a change.

5. Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid enables easy steering wheel control. It transfers power from the steering wheel to the steering rack. Low fluid levels can lead to increased steering effort and noises while turning. Locate the reservoir, often clearly marked under the hood, and check the fluid level. Add more if it’s below the “low” mark. The fluid color should be pink or clear, not dark or black.

Concluding Thoughts

Maintaining these five fluids is crucial in ensuring the longevity and performance of your used vehicle in Calgary’s challenging weather. Remember, fluids should not decrease rapidly between checks. If they do, consult a mechanic immediately, as this could indicate leaks, which may lead to severe damage if not addressed. Regular vigilance of these fluid levels will help you stay safe on the roads and can even prevent costly repairs in the future.

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