Car Fluids You Must Check Before Going On a Road Trip
Introduction
Knowing your car is like knowing your close family member or friend. They have always been with you like family, and what they demand is little care. Even if you are not a mechanic, knowing some basic car stuff is important. Car fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Checking them takes just fifteen minutes at home, with no technical expertise.
Although during service, the proper top-ups are made. But, when you’re travelling longer distances, it’s important to check all the fluids. So Magnus Motors is here to help you teach a basic fluid checks guide so that you don’t get stranded on an empty road.
Keeping your car at peak potential
Nobody likes to get stranded on the highway, which means checking your car’s essentials is crucial.
Common issues from neglected fluids:
- Engine overheating in traffic or hot weather
- Hard steering that tires you out
- Brake failure during sudden stops
- Gear shifting problems on long routes
Even cars that sit idle for weeks need regular checks. Fluids can degrade or leak over time, whether you drive daily or occasionally.
Essential Fluids to Check
Engine Oil
Engine oil lubricates the engine, helping to keep it running smoothly and refined. With time, the oil degrades, which makes your engine overheats and causes other unwanted problems.
How to check:
- Open the hood and locate the engine oil dipstick
- Pull it out, and check if the oil reaches the marked level
- If it’s below the marked level or the oil looks degraded, change it
Usually, engine oil is changed every 10,000 km or once a year; change it whichever comes first.
Brake oil
Brake oil transfers pressure from your pedal to the brakes. Without proper levels, your braking power reduces significantly.
How to check: Find the brake fluid reservoir under the hood, behind the engine, depending on the different car brands. Check if it’s at full point, if not, fill it.
Change brake fluid every two years. Old fluid absorbs moisture and loses effectiveness.
Coolant
Coolant regulates your engine temperature in all weather conditions. It prevents overheating in summer and freezing in winter.
- Locate the coolant reservoir (usually translucent colored liquid)
- Check level against min-max markings
- Never open when hot – pressure can cause burns
Top up with the correct coolant mixture if running low. Pure water isn’t a substitute.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid makes gear changes smooth and protects internal components. Low levels cause grinding or delayed shifting. Usually, most cars replace it between 50,000 and 100,000 km, depending on the type of transmission you have.
Power Steering Oil
This oil lubricates and keeps it smooth. Low oil level makes the steering Stiff, unusual slag and unresponsive. If steering feels heavy or makes noise, or the steering problem indicator blinks, then check it out and, if needed, change it.
Windshield Washer Fluid
Clean windshields save lives by maintaining clear visibility. This simple fluid often gets overlooked.
How to check:
- Open the washer fluid cap (usually has a windshield symbol)
- Look inside to see current level
- Top up with washer fluid, not plain water
Refill before every long trip. Dusty roads drain this faster than you think.
When and How Often to Check Fluids
Building a simple checking routine saves you from unexpected breakdowns. Make it a habit based on your driving patterns.
Quick checking schedule:
- Engine oil and coolant: Check monthly
- Brake and power steering fluid: Every two months
- Windshield washer fluid: Weekly or before trips
- Transmission fluid: During regular service intervals
Follow those guidelines for best results and warranty compliance.
Why only Authorised Servicing?
While basic checks work well at home, professional servicing goes deeper. Trained technicians spot problems you might miss during routine checks. Magnus Motors Citroën in Ahmedabad provides complete fluid analysis and replacements. Genuine parts and proper servicing maintain your warranty coverage.
Their team follows Citroën’s exact procedures for every fluid check. This attention to detail keeps your car performing at its best for years.
Conclusion
Regular fluid checks keep your car reliable and safe on every journey. These simple fifteen-minute checks prevent major problems down the road.
For professional servicing and expert guidance, Magnus Motors is always ready to help. Your car deserves the care that keeps it running smoothly for years to come.