How Often Should I Change My Car’s Fluid?

Have you ever gone into an auto shop and thought, “I feel like I’m really getting ripped off!” Maybe it is that unnecessary transmission fluid change when you know it was just changed out last month, or maybe it is those extra fees that you don’t understand on your bill. We get it, every day we have customers come into our stores who are tired of getting the runaround from shops that are looking to squeeze a few extra bucks out of their customers. At all Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers, we work tirelessly to ensure that you are only paying for the work that your car needs.

Motor oil

Motor oil is one of the most important fluids in your car; it is pretty much the blood coursing through your car’s veins. The need for fresh oil is why most shops put a sticker on your car’s windshield letting you know when to come in for your next oil change. The best part about your engine oil is that you can easily check your car’s level with the dipstick that is currently sitting in your oil reservoir. It is generally recommended that you change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles for full synthetic and every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for conventional oils, but if your oil level is low, you should get your oil changed immediately.

Transmission oil

Transmission oil is much less cut and dry than your engine oil and it is important to review your vehicle’s manual before going in to get this fluid changed. Certain cars have a “lifetime fill,” which can last as long as 150,000 miles, whereas other vehicles need to be changed regularly. When in doubt, it is best to get your transmission fluid changed at 60,000 miles and then every 30,000 miles after that.

Brake Fluid

Few features on your car are as important as your ability to stop, and keeping your brakes in tip-top shape should be at the top of your priorities. You should generally get your brake fluid changed every two years. If you want to check how your brake fluid is doing currently, you can pick up test strips to check the copper content of your fluid.

Coolant

When coolant is left in your engine for too long it can become extremely corrosive and actually rot your engine from the inside out. Some newer vehicles can go as long as 10 years or 100,000 miles between coolant changes, but it is recommended that you change your coolant every three years.

Wiper Fluid

Wiper fluid is one of the easier fluids to keep track of. Not only do most cars have wiper fluid warning on the dashboard, but if you are out of wiper fluid, chances are that you know about it. Your wiper fluid’s lifespan will vary greatly depending on the weather you drive in and how often you drive. If it has been two years or more since you’ve changed your wiper fluid, chances are that you are running low.

If you need any of your car’s fluids changed, choose a shop that you can trust to provide you with top quality products and unbeatable customer service. Each and every Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers is staffed with expert auto service technicians who will get you back on the road in no time, and will do their best to make it easy on your wallet! Come in today to see what sets us apart from the pack.