Essential Auto Fluids to Inspect & Change

Ahh, summer. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and your car's AC is blasting. But with higher temperatures comes the risk of your car overheating – mainly due to low or dirty fluids. To ensure a smooth and worry-free ride and that the summer heat doesn't take a toll on your vehicle, it's important to regularly check and change your automotive fluids.

Christian Brothers Automotive has got you covered with a list of the four most important fluids to keep an eye on this summer:

1. Engine Oil

Engine oil, often known as the lifeblood of your vehicle, serves to lubricate the numerous moving parts within your engine and prevents them from grinding against each other. During the sweltering summer months, the heat can thin out your oil, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing damage to your engine.

It's vital to get regular oil changes leading up to and during the summer. The summer season's heat can speed up the oil's degradation process, and if not adequately changed and maintained, it could lead to a less efficient engine or even serious damage over time.

2. Coolant

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a critical fluid that prevents your engine from overheating in the summer heat. It does this by absorbing the heat produced by the engine and dispersing it through the radiator. In the sweltering summer months, your car's engine is more prone to overheating, making the coolant's role even more vital.

Failing to properly maintain your coolant can lead to serious issues like engine failure. Thus, it's paramount that you have your coolant inspected and replaced regularly. During the summer months, when overheating is a common issue, regular checks every two weeks can ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

3. Brake Fluid

Brake fluid plays a crucial role in your car's braking system by transmitting the force you apply on the brake pedal to your car's brakes. In the summer, higher temperatures can cause the brake fluid to evaporate, leading to reduced braking efficiency and potentially posing a safety risk. Consistent inspection and change of brake fluid are paramount, especially during the summer months when the heat can accelerate the fluid's evaporation process.

Be sure to also look out for signs of brake fluid leaks. The summer months, with higher temperatures and more road trips, can increase the risk of leaks. If you notice any issues with your braking system, bring your car to your local auto shop!

4. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid ensures smooth and efficient gear shifting. Like the other fluids, heat can degrade the quality of the transmission fluid, leading to potential transmission malfunctions and reduced fuel efficiency. It's critical to inspect and change your transmission fluid regularly, with these checks becoming even more essential during hotter months.

How do you know when it's time for a fluid flush or change? Watch for signs like difficulty shifting gears, delayed vehicle movement, and decreased driving smoothness. A burnt smell or murky brown color in the transmission fluid can indicate the need for service. Regularly checking this fluid helps avoid costly transmission repairs and keeps your vehicle running smoothly all summer.

More Tips for Safe Summertime Driving

Even with regular inspection and change of these four essential fluids, there are still other vital maintenance steps to take during the summer months. Here are a few more tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely:

• Replace your air filter regularly. In many areas, summer is one of the driest times of the year. This means that dust can become a significant problem during the warm season. Along with pollen and bugs.

• Check tire pressure often, as hot weather can lead to overinflated tires

• Keep an eye on your battery's health and consider getting it tested before any long road trips

• Double-check your AC health and Freon levels, especially in hot climates 

With these tips in mind, you'll be ready to hit the road and enjoy your summer adventures without any car troubles!

Turn to Christian Brothers Automotive for Inspections, Fluid Flushes, & More

The last tip we offer for safe summer driving is to bring your car in for courtesy inspections and routine fluid flushes and changes at Christian Brothers Automotive. Our expert technicians will thoroughly check and change all necessary fluids, keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, with our friendly and informative approach, you can trust that we have your best interest in mind.

So don't let the summer heat put a damper on your road trips – let Christian Brothers Automotive take care of all your car maintenance needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Find your local CBA and schedule an appointment today to check and change your car's fluids!