Ever Counted The Different Oils And Other Fluids Use In Your Car?

You'll be amazed how many fluids keep it running…

Engine oils and the other fluids in your car are your vehicle's lifeblood and a key to safe, economical, reliable motoring. But what are these fluids and what are the secrets to making sure that gear oil, antifreeze and the others keep doing their vital work all year round?

More than just engine oils

Automotive fluids means more than just engine oils. First off, let's take stock of the main ones:

* Engine oils

* Gear oil

* Automatic transmission fluid

* Suspension fluid

* Brake fluid

* Power-steering fluid

* Greases

* Antifreeze and coolant fluid

* Screen washer additives

Imagine a car journey without these fluids

Now imagine what a typical car journey would be like without these fluids - assuming you got more than a few metres before the engine seized due to lack of oil! The transmission wouldn't shift smoothly (or at all) and for owners of many Citroën, Mercedes Benz or Rolls-Royce cars the ride would be rough due to the lack of suspension fluid. And of course, the brakes wouldn't work!

Added to this, the steering would be unbearably heavy on vehicles with power steering. And locks, bearings and dozens of other mechanisms would malfunction due to lack of grease. The engine would overheat in summer and freeze catastrophically in winter due to lack of coolant or antifreeze. And driving would be hazardous without the benefits of screen washer additives.

Look after vehicle fluids - keep cash in your pocket

This paints an extreme, hypothetical picture but it makes the point about the importance of vehicle fluids. In practice, under-performance of any single fluid could cause minor annoyance or a terrible accident. That's all the more reason to follow a few common-sense steps with fluids. By doing so you'll ensure the safety, reliability, fuel-economy and value of your vehicle. That's money in your pocket, which is always a good thing!

Five tips to get most from fluids such as engine oils and antifreeze

So what's the secret? Here are five simple tips to help you get the most out of vital fluids:

1. Follow manufacturers' recommendations

Whether for engine oils or automatic transmission fluid replacement, manufacturers' recommended specifications are there for a reason. They're the result of huge investment by car makers and oil companies into the best fluids for your car. Whether it's a Ford Ka or a Toyota Land Cruiser, there's a reason for every specification. Ignore it at your peril!

2. Use good quality fluids

Compared to your vehicle's value, the difference between good quality fluids and lower-quality fluids is minimal. Why take a chance with second-best for something as important as engine oils or gear oil?

3. Check levels regularly

Even normally reliable cars will probably develop a fluid leak one day. Regular checks for tell-tale signs of leakage or low levels in fluid reservoirs take just minutes. But they could save your life and save you a fortune in repair bills.

4. Don't cut corners by using inferior substitutes

Don't cut corners. Washing up liquid may seem to work in your washer but it won't perform like a purpose-made washer additive with built -in antifreeze in the depths of winter.

5. Learn about vehicle fluids: knowledge is power

And finally, while most people won't want to take a degree in automotive engineering, a little knowledge about fluids will give you confidence when you take your vehicle for a service. Is the mechanic spinning you a line? With some knowledge you'll know the difference between engine oils or how often antifreeze should be changed. This gives you a lot of power across the Service Reception counter.

Armed with your new understanding of vehicle fluids, it's easy to keep everything safe and at peak performance - or spot developing problems before they become critical. From engine oils to antifreeze, these fluids are your car's lifeblood. Look after them and they'll look after you, protect your investment and help you enjoy thousands of safe, enjoyable miles at the wheel.

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