| Checking Other Fluids |
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One to Steer, One to Brake Steering and brake fluids are not interchangeable. In fact, you should only use the exact type of fluid recommended by the manufacturer when replacing fluids (check the owner’s manual). For example, brake fluids come in at least three specifications: DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5. (DOT stands for U.S. Department of Transportation.) If your car’s manufacturer calls for DOT 3 brake fluid, do not use DOT 4 or DOT 5 unless the manufacturer says you can Why? Because these hydraulic fluids have different additives that work well in one type of brake, but can actually destroy another. Also, brake fluid is relatively cheap so don’t use it from a can that’s been open more than a year. Checking steering fluid is relatively easy. Most cars that use steering fluid provide a well-marked tank in the engine compartment somewhere on the driver’s side of the car. In fact, many are translucent with a FULL line that can be read without opening the top. Alternately, simply twist the steering fluid cap off and use the short dip stick attached to the cap to check the fluid’s level. If you’re not comfortable with checking or replacing the steering fluid, ask a trusted mechanic or full-service station attendant to do so. Brake fluid is also important to your car’s well-being. To check fluid level, you may need to remove the master brake cylinder’s top and visually check it. Many master cylinders have a reservoir similar to that for the steering system. (Be careful not to get them confused and add the wrong fluid!) Others have a metal cap with a pressure clip that most be carefully pried off with a screwdriver to check the level. Again, if you’re not comfortable doing this, hire someone who is and watch them. Or refer to the car’s owner’s manual or service manual for specific instructions. Some cars have a fluid for the manual transmission’s clutch system. It, too, is a hydraulic fluid used in a booster that makes depressing the clutch pedal easier. If your car is so equipped, look for a small reservoir clearly marked for CLUTCH FLUID and remove the cap to look for a fluid level indicator. The cap (or owner’s manual) will tell you what fluid to use when refilling.
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Modern cars have other fluids that are nearly as important and just about as easy to check. Steering systems use a special hydraulic fluid that makes steering easier. Brakes use a different type of hydraulic fluid that magnifies your foot’s pressure on the brake pedal to make brakes at all four wheels slow your car down.
