4. How to check vehicle fluid levels

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4. How to Check Vehicle Fluid Levels

One of the key aspects of vehicle maintenance is regular checking of fluid levels. Vehicle fluids perform vital functions such as lubrication, cooling and cleaning of internal components. Therefore, proper maintenance of these fluids is essential to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to check your vehicle's fluid levels.

Engine Oil

Engine oil is the most important fluid that needs to be checked regularly. It lubricates the engine's moving parts, preventing excessive wear and overheating. To check the oil level, follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and make sure the engine is cold.
2. Open the hood of the car and locate the oil dipstick. It usually has a yellow or orange handle.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth or paper towel.
4. Insert the dipstick again and pull it out to check the oil level.
5. The oil level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick. If it is below the "MIN" you will need to add more oil.

Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid is another vital fluid that needs to be checked regularly. It lubricates and cools the transmission parts. To check the transmission fluid level, follow these steps:

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and let the engine run for a few minutes.
2. Locate the transmission fluid dipstick. It is usually red or orange.
3. Remove the dipstick and wipe it with a clean cloth or paper towel.
4. Insert the dipstick again and pull it out to check the fluid level.
5. The fluid level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the dipstick. If it is below the "MIN" you will need to add more transmission fluid.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is vital to the vehicle's braking system. It transfers the force from the brake pedal to the wheels, allowing the vehicle to stop. To check the brake fluid level, follow these steps:

1. Locate the brake fluid reservoir in the engine compartment. This is usually a clear plastic container with a black lid.
2. Check the fluid level through the container. The level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks.
3. If the level is below "MIN", you will need to add more brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid helps make your vehicle's steering easier and smoother. To check the level of this fluid, follow these steps:

1. Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. This is usually a clear plastic container with a black or red lid.
2. Check the fluid level through the container. The level should be between the "MIN" and "MAX" marks.
3. If the level is below "MIN", you will need to add more power steering fluid.

Maintaining adequate levels of these fluids is crucial to the proper functioning of your vehicle. Remember to regularly check fluid levels and replace fluids as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.

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705. Vehicle engine maintenance