How to Add Fluids to a Car

An important task in maintaining the longevity of a car engine is to keep the proper fluid levels. Adding fluid to your car is an inexpensive way to avoid costly repair bills. Some fluids can be added by the average driver, while others should be handled by a professional mechanic.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Let the car warm up for 10 minutes or until the temperature gauge on the dashboard is at halfway. Then turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood of the car and find the coolant overflow bottle. It is a clear plastic reservoir next to the radiator with a hose connecting the two. If the level of the fluid is below the full line, add coolant to the bottle. Engine coolant is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water, so you will need to add half antifreeze and half water to bring the level up to full. Alternatively, you can purchase a premixed coolant, although it is more expensive.

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 off with more fluid. Do not use water as it may freeze in cold weather and does not clean as well as washer fluid.

4. Find the oil cap on the top of the engine. If your oil level is low, take off the oil cap, place a funnel in the hole and add 1 qt. of oil. Use only the oil that the manufacturer recommends for your engine. Check the oil level again and repeat until the dipstick reads full.

5. Do not add power steering fluid, brake fluid or transmission fluid to your car. A low level on any of these can be a sign of a more serious problem. Take your car to a professional right away.