How Long Can I Drive With the Check Engine Light On?

Posted on August 30, 2022 by autorepair

Whether your check engine light is illuminated in yellow or red, it is trying to send you a message. Above all else, that message is to warn you. Many people want to know how long they can drive their cars with a check engine light on before it starts to do any major damage to the vehicle. The answer might surprise you.

Continue below to learn what you need to know about your check engine light, including why it came on, what happens if you ignore it, and how to get it diagnosed without breaking the bank.

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Check Engine Lights are Warning Indicators

Also known a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), you can trust that the name alone is telling you that something attention-necessary is happening within your vehicle. When the Check Engine Light comes on, it wants you to do just that: have the engine checked out. Some vehicles are designed for the dashboard icon to light up in a yellow color to indicate a less serious malfunction and a red color for more serious engine issues. Some vehicles only illuminate in one color, but flash or remain solid to distinguish between serious and not-so-serious problems.

Why the Check Engine Light Comes On

There are many reasons why your Check Engine Light popped on. You may have just filled up the gas tank and failed to twist your cap all the way back on. This is one of the most common, non-serious reasons why Check Engine Lights come on. However, it could be due to a longer, more complicated list of reasons, from defective spark plugs and overheating engines to engine misfires, catalytic converter malfunctions, failed sensors (O2, ECU, Mass Airflow (MAF), intake track, etc.), and more. It is necessary to have your Check Engine Light warning diagnosed by a licensed mechanic or using a code reader.

Consequences of Ignoring a Check Engine Light

The Check Engine Light warning indicator on your dashboard is the most important warning to address. You never want to ignore and illuminated Check Engine Light. The longer you ignore your Check Engine Light, the more damage you’ll do to your engine and inner automotive components.

Depending on the reason why your check engine light is on, the damages could result in a variety of consequences, such as fuel economy inefficiencies, engine misfires, backfiring, catalytic converter damage, engine overheating, increased harmful emissions, spark plug damage, and much more.

Overall, you do not want to drive around with an illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light, even if the problem is minor, like a loose air filter. You do not want to take the chance and risk adding more costly damages to your vehicle. Check Engine Light diagnostics are very affordable, so it is worth your while to get the issue examined sooner rather than later.

If your check engine light is currently illuminated in your vehicle, you are in the right place for affordable and dependable automotive service and repair. Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 to speak with a friendly mechanic about check engine light diagnostics in Indianapolis, or simply schedule service online.

How to Make Your Car Last Longer For Cheaper

Posted on August 11, 2022 by autorepair

Everyone needs their car. Your car plays a vital role in maintaining your livelihood. Whether you use your car to get to and from work, go back and forth from school, or shuttle around your family to all of their schooling obligations and activities, your vehicle is very important. In the best interest of your financial future, it would be wisest to do all that you can to make your vehicle last as long as possible. Fortunately, there is a very budget-friendly way to do this.

Continue reading to learn how to make your car less longer for cheaper, plus where you can get dependable and affordable automotive service and repair in Indianapolis.

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The Cheapest Way to Increase the Life of Your Car or Truck

Stay Current on Factory Scheduled Maintenance

When you want to make your vehicle last as long as it possibly can, your first step is to read the owner’s manual. Your particular make and model vehicle will have a specific factory maintenance plan recommended within its manual. Follow the instructions for factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle, ensuring that you stay on top of it throughout the year, every year. When you keep up with car maintenance, you will experience fewer breakdowns and mechanical issues, which also saves you money on expensive automotive repairs and parts replacements.

Regularly Check Fluid Levels

Your vehicle requires certain automotive fluids at all times for optimal performance, safety, and you guessed it, longevity. This includes motor oil, radiator fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. To make a vehicle last as long as it is designed to last, it is important to ensure that your fluid levels are adequate at all times by regularly checking them. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to inspect and refill each fluid. In most cars, dashboard lights will appear if a fluid is low or empty.

Be Consistent With Oil Changes

As mentioned, it is important to regularly check your automotive fluid levels. Your motor oil is one of the most important automotive fluids because it lubricates the grinding, heat-generating internal mechanical components within your engine. Above all other vital automotive fluids, it is important to be consistent with the oil changes the most. Ask your mechanic how often you should get an oil change for your car.

Stay Alert to Strange Sounds or Movements

It is always important to be on the lookout for strange sounds, vibrations, shaking, or movements when starting or driving your vehicle. Such changes in your vehicle’s performance are indicators of an underlying problem. Your Indianapolis mechanic will be able to diagnose your vehicles issues through your description of its irregular performance. It is also good idea to stay alert to strange car smells, like burning rubber, gasoline, or a sweet syrupy scent.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Recommended Maintenance for a Car That Has Not Been Driven in a While

Posted on July 27, 2022 by autorepair

Whether you have been away for business or finally decided to take that old classic out of storage, a vehicle that has been parked for a long period of time will require some specialized auto care. Continue below to learn the recommended maintenance for a car that has not been driven in a while, plus which auto repair shop in Indianapolis to trust for superior service at neighborhood prices.

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Automotive Maintenance Tips for a Sitting Car

Hopefully you implemented some preventative maintenance to your vehicle before it took its long hiatus. But even if you didn’t, do not worry. There is still a chance that the right maintenance approach will get your ride operating safely and efficiently. Here are the top areas to focus on when planning to get your long-sitting car back in operation and out there on the open road once again:

Fluids

Did the tank have gas in it? If so, be sure to drain it and fill it up with some new stuff. Gasoline does expire. You want to also flush and refill all other vital automotive fluids, like brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper cleaner, and of course, motor oil. Unless you have keen mechanic skills, it is not recommended to do this yourself. Trust a licensed Indianapolis auto shop to service your car professionally.

Battery

Your battery needs more than just fluid to operate. It also need charge. Overtime, batteries drain of charge, and in lengthier stints of non-operation, will drain beyond the point of a jumpstart. In most cases of a long-sitting car, the battery will need to be replaced with a new one. Fortunately, car batteries are not expensive, plus you can change it yourself!

Tires

Not only do tires lose air pressure during long periods of non-use, but they also develop flat spots. These flat areas develop at the bottom of the tire and cause permanent shape change, so the tire can no longer be round. We need well-rounded and balanced tires for smooth and efficient operation, so in this case, it would be necessary to replace any damaged tires.

Extended Periods of Non-Use

Vehicles that have been sitting for a really long time are likely to incur some additional automotive damages, like rust formation, belt and hose deterioration, and even pest infestations. If your car has sat without being driven for a very long time, perhaps over a year or more, you should have it inspected by a licensed mechanic for dried out rubber belts and hoses, plus any potential wildlife damages like chewed electrical wiring or insulation. You can treat rust yourself to a certain extent using store-bought rust removal cleaners and kits.

Are you ready to schedule professional automotive maintenance appointment with a trusted Indy mechanic? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed and trained factory scheduled maintenance and car inspections in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all make and model vehicles!

Can You Put Diesel in a Car That Uses Unleaded Gasoline?

Posted on June 23, 2022 by autorepair

Gas prices; am I right? Good thing we don’t live in Oregon, where gasoline prices have skyrocketed to a breath-taking $9 per gallon. But still, the price for fuel right now is astronomical, so it is no surprise that so many drivers are looking for alternatives to spending their paychecks on their gas tanks. Aside from better car care and driving habits, there really isn’t much we can do to avoid paying for the fuel we need. This realization has often inspired drivers to explore the benefits of switching to diesel fuel.

But can you put diesel in a car that takes unleaded gasoline? If so, will it improve fuel functionality? If not, what would happen if you did anyway? Continue below to learn the difference between gasoline and diesel, plus whether you can use them interchangeably in vehicles.

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Using Diesel in Lieu of Gasoline is Probably Not Possible

How old is your vehicle? Was it manufactured within the last twenty-five years or so? If yes, then a diesel fuel nozzle won’t even fit inside of your gas tank opening. Diesel fuel nozzles are differently-sized compared to standard unleaded gasoline nozzles at the local gas station, plus there is a special plate fitted under the gas cap on designated unleaded vehicles, making the insertion impossible. Sure, you could use your own fuel container and nozzle, or maybe your car’s older than twenty-five years old and without the hidden gas cap plate. Motorcycles don’t have the hidden gas plate either. But that’s not the end of the story. There are more reasons why you can’t put diesel into a vehicle that takes unleaded gasoline.

The Difference Between Diesel and Gasoline

So, what would happen if you put diesel fuel into a car that uses standard unleaded gasoline? To better understand what would happen and why, let’s explore the differences between diesel and gasoline. Compared to unleaded gasoline, diesel fuel is heavier. One gallon of diesel is a pound heavier than one gallon of gasoline.

Diesel fuel is also oily, and science tells us that oil doesn’t evaporate in the normal sense. The same can be said about diesel. Furthermore, diesel smells completely different than unleaded gasoline. So, when taking into consideration all of these differences, you can rationally come to the conclusion that nothing good would come of you swapping out your unleaded gasoline with diesel. In fact, you can expect your car to not start.

Why You Unleaded Gas Car Won’t Start if You Give it Diesel Fuel

You see, cars that are designed to use unleaded gasoline are equipped with a fuel injection system that uses fuel injectors to shoot gasoline into the cylinders of the engine. Once there, the fuel is ignited by the spark plugs, which then turns the engine over. But if you were to use diesel fuel in place of gasoline, the fuel injectors would transport the diesel into the engine cylinders, the spark plugs won’t be able to ignite the fuel. So, your car won’t start. Now, will it do any damage to your vehicle? That’s a whole other topic.

Will Diesel Damage an Unleaded Gas Engine?

Well, we know that an unleaded gasoline vehicle will not start if you give it diesel fuel, but we haven’t talked about whether it does any damage or not. Well, thankfully, no, there shouldn’t be any damage to your engine or any other system within the vehicle if you put diesel fuel in your unleaded gas engine car. However, you will need to drain the fuel tank and refill it with the proper fuel. This can be a really tedious process and should only be done if you are familiar with routine automotive work like oil changes and filter replacements. Otherwise, take your car into a local Indianapolis automotive repair shop for license car maintenance and repair services.

Does your car or truck need some fuel filter or fluid change service? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana at a price you can afford. We work on all make and model vehicles, providing everything from oil changes to major engine work.

What You Need to Know About Car Repair Insurance

Posted on June 9, 2022 by autorepair

All vehicle owners in the state of Indiana are required to have limited liability insurance coverage on their vehicles. But this type of insurance coverage does not cover automotive repairs and car maintenance services, nor offer extended warranties. If you want to be covered in the case that your car breaks down or requires a major repair, you’ll need to seek out an additional policy separate from your standard auto insurance.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about car insurance coverage so that you can make the best decision for your automotive protection interests.

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Auto Repair Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage for auto repairs and car maintenance is not included in your standard car insurance policy. Some insurance policies do include coverage for auto body work in the case of an accident or collision, but not limited liability policies. If you have the state minimum insurance coverage, you are not covered for auto body work for your own vehicle, but any other vehicles affected in the collision will be covered under your policy, but only to a certain damage cap.

To be covered under an insurance policy for auto repairs and warranty protection, you will need to either add to your current car insurance policy or seek out a separate policy, either with your same insurance company or a different one. Insurance coverage for automotive repairs is typically pricey. For this reason, it is encouraged to call around to multiple insurance carriers to compare rates and get the best deal. Your current automotive insurance carrier may not provide the best deal for auto repair insurance coverage.

Additional Considerations for Car Repair Insurance

When researching car repair insurance policies, you will find that there are different types of coverage. Different levels of coverage will render different policy prices. The more coverage, the higher the price of the policy, and vice versa. Car repair insurance policies are offered in partial or full coverage.

Another consideration is the deductible. Just like any other insurance policy, car repair insurance policies will come with deductible terms. Before being qualified for automotive repairs, you will be required to pay your policy deductible, upfront. This is something to think about since the deductible you choose will have an impact on the monthly cost of your policy.

Then there is the hassle of making an insurance claim. Everybody knows that the process of filing an insurance claim, whether for car repair or auto body work, is a complicated process, filled with all sorts of roadblocks. Ultimately, insurance companies want to pay out as little as possible for every single claim, and their employees are specifically trained to lower the value of any claim that comes through their office. This is something to think about when deciding if car repair insurance is something that is compatible with your budget and overall automotive protection needs.

Are you looking for a reliable Indianapolis auto repair shop that won’t charge you an arm and a leg for car repair or maintenance? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

How to Use Engine Braking to Extend the Life of Car Brakes

Posted on April 27, 2022 by autorepair

If you haven’t heard of a car care strategy known as engine braking, you will be glad you came across this blog. Extending the components and systems within your vehicle ultimately extends its life. And engine braking will contribute to this objective. Continue below to learn what engine braking is, why it is beneficial, and most importantly, how to do it!

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Engine Braking Basics

How do you reduce your speed when driving? You use the brake pedal, of course! Pressing on the brake is the go-to instinct of all drivers who want to slow their vehicles down or come to a stop. But did you know that routinely pressing the brake can impact your car’s performance and safety? Fortunately, there is more than one way to brake. Enter engine braking.

Engine braking is a driving technique that slows your car down by simply releasing your foot from the brake pedal, then shifting the gears down, one by one. This can be done in both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

In a manual transmission vehicle, after you take your foot off the brake, keep it off, and then shift down through each gear until it is time to stop completely or gas back up. In automatic vehicles, release your foot from the pedal, then let the car slow down on its own. It is not recommended to use engine braking too often in automatic transmission vehicles.

Benefits of Engine Braking

Engine braking is an easy-to-do driving strategy that can extend the life of your car brakes and improve your vehicle’s overall efficiency. How does it work? In plain language, engine braking limits the amount of airflow sent to the engine, which causes the engine to decrease the speed of the wheel revolutions. There are many more benefits of engine braking. It reduces the rate of wear and tear on your car’s braking system and engine, especially in the case of long descents down steep roads or hills. Engine braking also increases your fuel economy, giving you better gas mileage. And, although not entirely true for automatic vehicles, engine braking is not harmful to your manual transmission so long as you do not let the RPMs go close to or above the red line on the dashboard gauge.

How to Engine Brake Safely

Engine braking is more than just taking your foot off the brake pedal and down shifting through each gear. There are some other good driving practices you must follow to protect your engine and transmission.

First, never shift down to a low gear when you are still driving fast. High speeds are not conducive to safe engine braking at low gears.

Also, it is very important to go through each gear. Avoid skipping a gear, as this can put a lot of strain on your transmission and engine.

Last, engine braking is a great driving tool, but not one to be overused. Too much engine braking can have adverse effects on your car.

Are you looking for professional car brake repair or maintenance in Indy? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

How to Tell if Your Car Needs Fuel Induction Service

Posted on April 18, 2022 by autorepair

Your vehicle’s fuel efficiency is important, not only to your bank account, but also to your driving safety and performance. One such car maintenance strategy that helps prevent poor fuel economy is fuel induction. If you have noticed that your car is using up more gasoline than normal, or your car engine is losing performance value, you might benefit from fuel induction service.

Continue reading to learn what fuel induction service entails, plus how to spot the signs that suggest your car is in need of it soon.

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Fuel Induction Services

If your car is experiencing subpar fuel efficiency or engine operation, the fuel system is the first place you should be concerned about. Generally, a quick fuel induction service is the common, go-to maintenance to rule out more serious automotive problems. If your fuel economy issues or engine performance problems persist after a fuel induction, then your mechanic will have to look further.

What is fuel induction? Let’s first review the journey of your car’s fuel. When you engage the gas pedal, fuel from your gas tank is sent to the fuel pump, down the fuel lines, through the fuel filter, and into the fuel injection system. From there, the fuel injection system sprays fuel into the engine combustion chambers, where it meets air let in from the air filter. The air-fuel mixture is then ignited by the spark plugs, which starts your engine.

Also referred to as fuel injection or fuel system cleaning, fuel induction is a routine car maintenance service that eliminates the harmful carbon deposits produced by impurities in gasoline and fuel additives. These deposits can clog the fuel injectors and fuel lines, which can reduce the flow rate of fuel, or even block it altogether in serious cases, thus leading to engine performance issues and poor gas mileage. This service is suitable for both return and returnless fuel systems.

Signs That Suggest You Need Fuel Injection Cleaning

Refer to your owners’ manual for manufacturer recommendations on how often you should take your car in for fuel injection cleaning services. Between scheduled maintenance, you may notice signs that suggest your car needs fuel induction cleaning sooner than later. Here are some common signs to look out for:

⛽ Poor Gas Mileage
⛽ Filling Up the Tank More Often
⛽ Slowed Acceleration
⛽ Engine Knocking or Banging
⛽ Bumpy Idling
⛽ Losing Power While Driving

Fuel Induction Versus Fuel System Cleaner

You might think you can save time and money by purchasing some over-the-counter fuel system cleaning solution. Although such products are relatively inexpensive, they may not be the best solution for your automotive fuel system inadequacies or performance issues. Fuel induction services range in price depending on a variety of factors, namely the make and model of your vehicle, usually starting out around $150 or so.

A bottle of fuel system cleaner will run you around $35 or $40. Sure, the math says you can save a lot of money by choosing the DIY route, but professional fuel induction service is the better and smarter investment, especially for cars in serious condition. The money you save in the long run on fuel and auto repairs will surpass the cost savings you get from going the over-the-counter route.

Are you in need of a vehicle inspection or fuel injection cleaning? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional fuel system service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also offer a generous selection of automotive service and repair coupons, discounts, and deals!

Automotive Maintenance 101 for Trucks

Posted on March 30, 2022 by autorepair

Maintenance services are intended to keep a vehicle’s motor in optimal condition and prevent future costly breakdowns and repairs. They are quite necessary, whether you have a car or a truck. If you are new to owning both a car and a truck, you will start to notice a slight difference in their maintenance needs. A truck’s maintenance schedule and requirements differ from that of a standard two or four-door vehicle. But overall, both types of vehicles require pretty much the same services.

The owners’ manual gives detailed instructions regarding your make and model’s factory scheduled maintenance needs and agenda. If you do not have this manual for your vehicle, you can most likely download a copy online, or consult an auto mechanic for professional advice.

Continue reading to learn the recommended car maintenance schedule for trucks, plus where to get dealership-level auto repair and service at a fraction of the cost in Indianapolis.

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The Fundamentals of Routine Truck Maintenance

Fluid Refills

All motor vehicles, whether truck, car, or SUV, requires a certain level and array of fluids to operate effectively and safely. These fluids include motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper solution, power steering fluid, and battery fluid. But cars and trucks are used for different purposes, and they drive differently. A car only holds up to five passengers and drives mostly on smooth roads; whereas a truck is likely to carry loads, haul items, and drive on rougher terrains. This type of driving causes the fluids to run hotter and get used up quicker. For this reason, trucks will require more frequent fluid changes than a standard car.

Lube and Oil

On the topic of fluids, trucks also require routine lubrication of their ball joints and U-joints. These areas also need to be inspected regularly for damages or defects. For manual trucks, it is important to also check on the clutch reservoir fluid to make sure it is at a good level.

Vehicles need air and oil filters to keep the motor clean of solid debris. Otherwise, the debris would enter the motor and grind between moving parts, causing engine damage. For trucks that are used in construction or other rugged outdoor sites, it is likely that the air and oil filters are accumulating more debris at a faster rate. This means trucks used under these conditions will require more frequent filter changes than cars. Fortunately, filters are cheap and easy to change.

Tire Inflation

Lastly, trucks require more frequent tire inflation. Tire inflation is important, and necessary, for trucks because they carry cargo. Tires should be evenly and properly inflated to safely haul cargoes. If tires are not adequately inflated, tire blow outs can occur, causing truck accidents and collisions.

Are you looking for a skilled automotive mechanic who can get your truck in and out of the shop, fast? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled truck maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Are Bigger Tires More Fuel Efficient?

Posted on March 14, 2022 by autorepair

With the ever-inflating gas prices today, anyone who has to drive a car is looking for ways to save on fuel. For many generations, it has been suggested that larger tires promote improved fuel efficiency; but is this true? Continue reading to learn the truth about the link between tires and gas mileage, plus what you can do to save a few bucks this year when fueling up Regardless of the size of your car tires.

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Tire Diameter Can Affect Fuel Consumption

According to many professionals in the automotive manufacturing industry, tire diameter does have an effect on how a vehicle uses fuel. After all, any change in tire diameter will impact several factors of the vehicle’s performance, from braking and acceleration to traction control, maneuvering, and of course, fuel economy. In fact, it is suggested that a car can experience up to 25% loss or gain in terms of fuel economy depending on the type and condition of the tires.

Although there are several factors that can influence such fluctuations in fuel efficiency, these four factors seem to have the most impact:

► VEHICLE WEIGHT
► TORQUE CURVE
► GEARING
► AERODYNAMICS

Tire and Engine Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)

Industry experts also suggest that larger tires make more contact with the road per tire revolution. As a result of this increased contact, the car uses less gearing power in the engine runs at lower revolutions per minute. This promotes increased fuel economy because the car is using less gasoline to travel the same distance. Many drivers insist that taller tires can also promote better fuel efficiency due to improved wind resistance.

However, keep in mind that this notion of tire diameter and fuel economy coinciding with one another is not universal across the board with all make and model vehicles. It is important to consult with your trusted automotive mechanic in Indianapolis to ensure that your tires are in good condition and compatible with your driving objectives.

More Tips on How to Improve Gas Mileage:

► Stay current all factory scheduled car maintenance.
► Maintain proper tire inflation and tire pressure.
► Take heavy items out of your trunk or backseat.
► Avoid idling for extended periods of time.
► Practice smooth inpatient driving.
► Use the proper fluids and fuel for your make and model vehicle.
► Start a carpool club.
► Use public transportation more often.
► Repair any mechanical problems with your car right away.

Are you looking for a trusted mechanic in Indy who can help you tune up your car and save more on fuel? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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Check These Five Automotive Fluids Regularly

Posted on February 28, 2022 by autorepair

Winter is still going strong, but the time of year makes no difference when it comes to car maintenance. There are many tasks to stay on top of if you wish to keep your vehicle in optimal condition, year-round. Checking on your automotive fluid levels is one of these vital car maintenance priorities.

Continue reading to learn the 5 car fluids you should check on regularly, plus where to take your vehicle for dealership-level car maintenance at neighborhood prices in Indianapolis.

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Important Car Fluids

The total number of fluids in a vehicle really depends on the type, make, and model. However, virtually all automobiles require 7 to 8 design-specific fluids for optimal performance and longevity. These include fluids for the engine, brakes, transmission, radiator, power steering, battery, differential, and windshield.

The most important automotive fluids you should be checking on a regular basis, especially during the winter and summer months when the temperatures are more extreme, include the motor oil, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You can refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to check each automotive fluid level.

Motor Oil

Also referred to as engine oil, your motor oil levels matter every time you turn the ignition. Engine oil is designed to lubricate the internal engine structure, thus abating friction and heat generation, which can be damaging to the engine and other automotive parts. Check your motor oil levels biweekly or monthly, depending on how often and how far you drive. Always be sure to let your engine cool completely before pulling out the oil dipstick. Get your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or according to your vehicle’s manufacturer’s instructions.

Radiator Fluid

Also called coolant or antifreeze, radiator fluid is responsible for regulating internal temperatures. It prevents a car engine from overheating. Coolant becomes contaminated with rust and other pollutants overtime, making it necessary to check and replace on a regular basis. Improper coolant levels or dirty radiator fluid can cause an engine to overheat, damage other internal engine components, and pose several safety risks to drivers and passengers of the vehicle.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic transmission vehicles require transmission fluid to keep the gears shifting properly. Like motor oil is a lubricant for the engine, transmission fluid acts in a similar way for the gears. Check the transmission fluid as often as you check the motor oil. Not only should you have enough fluid, but it should also be clean. Transmission fluid does degrade over time, and as a result can change colors or appear dark and dirty. Dark or black transmission fluid is dirty and requires replacing should be replaced as soon as possible.

Brake Fluid

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably one of most important safety components. after all, they allow you to stop your 5,000 pound car when it’s moving at 60 miles an hour! Brake fluid is an essential automotive fluid because it supports the performance of your car’s braking system. If you’re brake fluid is low or poor in quality, it can affect how well your car responds to brake pressure. You should have your brake fluid checked on an annual basis, or more often if you’re experiencing any type of automotive leak.

Power Steering

Today, most vehicles are designed with power steering, and therefore, require power steering fluid. Without sufficient levels of clean, quality power steering fluid, the steering wheel will become more difficult to maneuver, and eventually will hardly be movable at all. Power steering fluid should be checked every year or two years, depending on how often you drive and the age of the vehicle.

TIPS FOR CHECKING AUTOMOTIVE FLUIDS:

↪ Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on how to check and replace the fluids in your vehicle.

↪ Aside from a transmission fluid check, your car should be turned off and the engine should be completely cooled down before you check any automotive fluid levels.

↪ Be sure your car is parked on an even and level surface for accurate readings.

↪ Choose top quality automotive fluids that are specifically designed for the intended application.

↪ Spotting a small puddle of liquid beneath or in front of your car can be an indication of an automotive leak. Have this inspected by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.

↪ Never forget about refilling your windshield wiper fluid. It’s very frustrating to run out when you need it most! It can also prevent traffic accidents and roadside emergencies!

↪ Overall, you should check all automotive fluids at least every month to ensure that levels are adequate, and liquids are clean.

Are you looking for a professional auto shop to provide routine car maintenance for your vehicle in place? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE licensed auto service and car maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Ask us about our auto repair and service promotions!