How to Check Fluids in a Car

Keeping the proper fluid levels in your car is vital to maintaining the engine's longevity and your personal safety. A low coolant level is one of the most destructive things to an engine, and low washer fluid can present a dangerous situation. A quick check under the hood is all it takes to ensure that your car has the proper fluid levels.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start you car and let it warm up. Let it run for 10 minutes or until the temperature gauge on the dashboard is at halfway.
2. Open the hood of the car and locate the coolant overflow bottle. It is a clear plastic reservoir next to the radiator, with a hose connecting the two. On the side of the reservoir, there are markings that show full and low levels. If the level of the liquid is below the low marking, you need more coolant.
3. Locate the windshield washer fluid receptacle. It is a clear bottle with a blue fluid inside. The cap may be marked with a windshield symbol. If the level is below halfway full, you should top it up.
4. Find your power steering fluid reservoir and brake fluid reservoir. They are usually located on top of the engine and are labeled. Open the cap on each and check the fluid level on the dipstick that is attached to the underside of the cap. If either of these fluids are low, you should have the car serviced soon because it could be a sign of a larger problem.
5. Check the level of your automatic transmission fluid. Pull out the transmission fluid dipstick located at the back of the engine near the firewall. Wipe it off, replace it and pull it out again. Check the level against the markings at the bottom of the dipstick. A low level should be addressed immediately with a trip to a transmission specialist. Check the color of the fluid; it should be clear pink. Any darkness warrants a fluid change.