Fluids in Florida: 5 Essentials Every Car Needs
It's no secret that Florida can be a hot, humid place for a good half of the year. And while it may be fun to jump in the ocean or take a swim in the pool, it's not so much fun when your car doesn't run properly.
That's why Sun Toyota is here to help you out! We want to make sure that your car is running smoothly, regardless of the weather conditions.
This blog post will pop 5 essential fluids that every car needs to run properly.
No. 1: Engine Oil
Not like you didn't see that coming. Engine oil is essential for keeping your engine lubricated and in good condition. It also helps prevent corrosion and wear on the moving parts of your machine.
Most carmakers recommend changing your engine oil every 5,000 miles or so, but that can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. So be sure to reconfirm with your owner's manual or ask one of our expert service technicians.
No. 2: Transmission Fluid
It's good to keep the gears going, and the transmission is responsible for doing just that. Transmission fluid helps keep the gears cool and lubricated and prevents corrosion.
Just like engine oil, you should change your transmission fluid every so often - again, depending on your car's make and model. But a good rule to drive by is to do it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or whatever your car's manufacturer recommends.
No. 3: Brake Fluid
Our third essential fluid is brake fluid. This clear liquid helps keep your brakes functioning correctly by stopping the brake pads from corroding and becoming ineffective - and we all know how important brakes are!
You can get an idea of when to change your car's brake fluid by consulting your mechanic or looking in your car's owner's manual. Most drivers prefer changing it every 4 to 5 years, depending on how often they drive.
No. 4: Coolant or Antifreeze
This particular fluid is substantial because it helps keep your car's engine from overheating. It does this by transporting heat away from the engine and into the radiator, releasing it into the air.
For a silicate coolant, it's generally recommended to flush it and change it every 2 years or 30,000 miles. If you have an extended drain coolant, you can go up to 5 years or 100,000 miles before needing a change.
Be sure only to use the recommended type of coolant for your car - using the wrong kind could do more harm than good!
No. 5: Power Steering Fluid
Ever feel sluggish when it's hot outside? Well, power steering fluid is one of the things that helps combat that. It helps keep your car's power steering system running smoothly, so you can quickly turn the wheel when you need to.
You don't want to imagine what could happen if your power steering fails while driving. If you ever see a power steering fluid leak, get it checked out immediately!
The Takeaway
Hopefully, you better understand the different fluids that your car needs to run correctly by now. Here at Sun Toyota, serving New Port Richey, FL, we want to help you keep your vehicle on the road for as long as possible.
