Spring is here—the weather’s warming up, the trees are starting to pop, and it’s a good time to give your car some well-deserved attention. Even if you stayed on top of things all winter, stressors like cold temperatures and road salt can take a toll on key systems.
A quick fluid check is one of the easiest ways to make sure your vehicle is ready for the months ahead. We’ll walk you through the basics so you know what to look for and when it’s time to take action.
Fluids to Check This Spring
The fluids in your vehicle all serve different roles. Some are meant to keep things lubricated, others to keep things cool, and some are just there to keep critical systems clean. In any case, you don’t want their respective reservoirs to run dry. When levels drop or condition declines, problems follow—and they can range from a minor inconvenience all the way to full-on catastrophic failure of major components.
The good news? A quick check goes a long way. Here are the key fluids to look at this spring:
1. Engine Oil
Always start your fluid checks with the engine oil. Often called the lifeblood of your car, it keeps internal components lubricated and running smoothly.
To check the oil, locate and pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel. Then reinsert it and pull it again to check both the level and condition. The oil should fall within the marked range on the dipstick and appear amber to dark brown in color. If it’s very dark, low, or gritty, then it’s time for a change.
If the oil is milky in color, there may be moisture in the system. In some cases, that’s just condensation—but if it persists after another check or short drive, have a shop take a closer look.
Need something a little more step-by-step? Check out our guide on how to check automotive fluids.
2. Transmission Fluid
Not all vehicles have easily serviceable transmissions, but if yours does, it’s worth checking the fluid condition. Transmission fluid should appear pink or red to reddish brown, depending on the mileage. If it’s dark in color or low, you should contact a shop to have the transmission checked for leaks and the fluids serviced. The same is true if you’re nearing the end of the fluid life in general, and especially if you notice a burning smell or rough shifting. You can refer to your owner’s manual for recommended service intervals.
3. Engine Coolant
Engine coolant plays a crucial role in regulating temperature and preventing overheating. Most vehicles have a translucent reservoir with lines marked “min” and “max”, making it easy to check levels at a glance—no tools required.
If the level is low or the fluid appears dirty or discolored, it may need to be topped off or flushed. Low coolant combined with milky oil can point to a more serious issue, so don’t ignore that combination. If you’re unsure, most shops can check this quickly during a routine visit.
4. Washer Fluid
This is the easiest check on the list—and one of the most commonly skipped.
If you drove through winter, there’s a good chance your reservoir is running low. All you have to do is top it off, and you’re good to go. However, spring is a good time to consider switching to a warmer-weather washer fluid formula, which does a better job removing pollen, sap, and bug residue.
If you’re changing fluid types, you can simply run the sprayers until the reservoir is empty before refilling. To prevent overheating the pump, use short bursts rather than one long, continuous spray.
5. Brake Fluid
Most motorists take brake fluid for granted, checking it very little—if at all—during their vehicle’s lifetime, but it’s critical to how your braking system functions.
The reservoir is typically located under the hood and marked with fill lines, so you can check the level without removing the cap. The fluid should be clear to light amber and within the recommended range. If it’s dark, contaminated, or low, have it inspected right away. Low brake fluid can indicate worn components or a leak, and it’s not something you want to ignore.
Not sure where that leak is coming from? Check out our guide to identifying common car fluid leaks.
Top It Off with Parts Via
Staying on top of routine maintenance is one of the simplest ways to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you need fluids, additives, or replacement parts, Parts Via has you covered. Take advantage of our fast, FREE ship-to-store option at checkout so you can skip shipping costs and have your order sent directly to a nearby shop or pickup location.