Massachusetts Subaru News February 2014

6 Very Important Car Fluids

Not that many people are aware that their cars need more than just oil changes on a regular basis. Don't worry, because you are not alone! After reading this article, you will be able to impress the mechanics at all of the Boston Subaru Dealerships when you pay them a visit next time.

Motor Oil - The one we all Know About!

This fluid is vital to your cars health. Without motor oil, the will be nothing that lubricates the cars engine and the friction of the moving parts will cause your car to overheat - BAD NEWS!

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid has a similar job to motor oil. It is also there to lubricate and keep parts cool, but it also plays an important part in shifting gears (automatic cars). Manual transmissions also need transmission fluid, but it is slightly different to the type used for automatic cars.

Antifreeze

Well, the name kind of says it! Antifreeze is the fluid that you add to the water that goes into your cars radiator and it prevents the water from freezing. Keeping your car cool is the goal here, not to have it freeze internally.

What is Washer Fluid?

Washer fluid does not only consist of water and soap - NOPE! Washer fluid contains a number of chemicals that are necessary for certain functions. Some of the chemicals include methanol and ethylene glycol. These chemicals are important because they help to lower the risk of the washer fluid ending up frozen. Many companies are now creating washer fluids that are better for the environment and some folks even make their own mixture - normally from washing liquid and water.

Brake Fluid - NO Stopping Without It!

Without brake fluid, you will not be able to stop your car. When you press the brake, the plunger in the master brake cylinder actually forces the brake fluid through a number of hoses and tubes, which eventually reach the actual braking unit inside the wheels. This is the process which cause your car to come to a stop. If your brake fluid is low, you will not be able to stop quickly which could end up resulting in an accident.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is what lubricate the steering and allows you to maneuver your car much easier than if there was no power steering available. The power steering fluid is released through a small hole when you turn the steering wheel and this fluid is what makes it easy to turn the wheel.

Okay! There you have it, the 6 important fluids that your car must have in order to perform at its best. The next time that you take your car in for a service, you will be able to tell the mechanic what has been checked and what you think might be the problem. If not, at least it will not sound like Greek when they tell you what they needed to replace.


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