Tips and Hints: How to check your car fluids during summer.

1. Engine Oil^*

One of the most important fluids in your car is the engine oil, it keeps all the mechanic parts well-oiled allowing everything to run smoothly. Park the vehicle on level ground. After warming up the engine and turning it off, wait more than 5 minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine. Holding a rag under the end, pull the dipstick out. Wipe the dipstick clean, then reinsert the dipstick fully. Holding a rag under the end, pull the dipstick out and check the oil level. You can easily add more oil yourself to keep this at the right mark. Whilst you are there, also check the cleanliness of the oil, if dark and dirty the oil may need replacing completely. Refer to your Toyota owner’s manual for direction.

2. Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is equally as important, as it helps keeps brakes working and in turn keeps us safe on the roads. You can check your brake fluid by locating its containment in the engine bay, markers should indicate levels to be maintained. If it is low, again this can be added but ensure the fluid is compatible with your Toyota vehicle. Refer to your Toyota owner’s manual for direction.

3. Coolant

Coolant is a fluid that keeps your engine heat minimised, to help with overheating. Coolant can last a fair distance, however it is good to check levels to ensure no leaks are occurring. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir when the engine is cold. When the engine is hot. Do not remove the engine coolant reservoir cap or the radiator cap. The cooling system may be under pressure and may spray hot coolant if the cap is removed, causing serious injuries, such as burns. Refer to your Toyota owner’s manual for direction.

4. Windshield Washer Fluid

Not to be taken lightly, Windshield Washer fluid can keep you safe on the road if required to wash away debris to keep your visibility clear. Use just water or add a cleaning product for a better result, the container for this fluid is easy to locate. Refer to your Toyota owner’s manual for direction, as this will vary across models.

5. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid keeps the gears, clutch and valves within your transmission well lubricated and helps keep these components cool. Toyota’s come with high quality fluid that should last, however it is worth checking fluid levels when the car is serviced to ensure no leaks or car performance issues are occurring. Refer to your Toyota owner’s manual for direction, as not all our models allow for this fluid to be checked by owner and may require a visit to your local dealership to have this inspected with a scanning tool.

If you need a helping hand, one of our certified Toyota Technicians can conduct a check for you, just book a service is online via myToyota. Just register or log in, go to Garage via my.toyota.com.au and select Book a Service. For myToyota FAQs, go to toyota.com.au/faqs.

If there are any topics you’d like us to cover in future issues of GoPlaces, we’d love to hear from you. Just send your suggestion to [email protected] and we’ll take it on board.

*The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death or serious injury, always refer to your owner’s manual for appropriate safety precautions.