Your car runs on more than engine oil. Brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid and, on all-wheel-drive vehicles, differential and transfer case oil all wear out on their own schedules. Most of them are easy to forget because you never see them.
We start by checking levels and testing condition. Brake fluid is tested for moisture, coolant for freeze protection and pH, and transmission fluid for colour and smell. Then we tell you what's due on your manufacturer's schedule and what can wait.
We use the fluid type your car calls for. That matters: many transmissions, CVTs especially, need a specific fluid, and the wrong one can cause shifting problems or damage.
Why it matters
Brake fluid absorbs water
Brake fluid pulls moisture from the air over time. Water lowers its boiling point and corrodes lines and calipers from the inside. Many manufacturers call for a change every two to three years.
Old coolant eats metal
Coolant loses its corrosion inhibitors with age and starts working on water pumps, heater cores and gaskets. Weak coolant can also freeze in a deep cold snap.
Fluid costs less than a transmission
Even where the manual calls the fluid lifetime, we check its condition on cars that see a lot of stop-and-go, idling or towing.
Signs it's time
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Coolant low, rusty or murky
- Harsh, slipping or delayed gear changes
- Whining when you turn the steering wheel
- Puddles under the car (note the colour)
- A fluid service listed as due in your owner's manual
What's included
- Level and condition check on all major fluids
- Brake fluid moisture test and exchange
- Coolant test, drain and refill
- Transmission fluid drain and fill to spec
- Differential and transfer case oil on AWD and 4x4
- Power steering fluid exchange on hydraulic systems
- Air bled from brake and cooling systems after service
- Washer fluid topped up with winter-rated fluid
How often
Varies by fluid
Brake fluid every two to three years on many cars. Coolant and transmission fluid run on much longer intervals. Your owner's manual has the exact schedule, often with a separate one for severe use.
