How to check coolant, washer and brake fluid

Teach: How to check coolant, washer and brake fluid

What to say

Check coolant, washer and brake fluid with the engine cold by reading the level marks on each see-through reservoir under the hood, without opening anything hot. Coolant and brake fluid should sit between the minimum and maximum lines. Washer fluid you can top up yourself. Low coolant or low brake fluid means a leak or wear that a shop should look at.

What to show, in order

1. Check only with the engine cold, ideally first thing in the morning, with the car on level ground.
2. Use the owner's manual diagram to find the coolant reservoir, the brake fluid reservoir and the washer fluid tank, each usually marked with a symbol.
3. Read the coolant level against the MIN and MAX lines on the side of the reservoir without removing the cap.
4. Read the brake fluid level against its MIN and MAX lines, again without opening it.
5. Open the washer fluid cap, which usually shows a windshield symbol, and fill with washer fluid rated for your winter temperatures.
6. Look under the car where it normally parks for drips, and note their color and position.
7. Write down what you found; if coolant or brake fluid is low, book a shop visit rather than just topping up.

When to stop and call a professional

• The coolant or brake fluid is below the minimum line.
• The brake pedal feels soft, sinks, or the brake warning light is on: do not drive, have the car towed or inspected.
• You see puddles of green, orange, pink or clear slippery fluid under the car.
• The engine temperature gauge climbs above normal or you see steam.

The check question

Ask: When is it safe to open a coolant cap? Answer: Only when the engine is completely cold

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.