How to Check Car Fluid Levels

If you’ve noticed that your check engine light is on, now is a good time to check car fluid levels — including engine oil, brake fluid, and other automotive fluids. The certified technicians at Cornerstone Plymouth are happy to take care of your auto maintenance needs near Maple Grove, but we’re also here to help if you’d like to handle it on your own! Learn how to check engine fluids in the guide below, or reach out to schedule service and repairs at our service center in Plymouth, MN.

How to Check Engine Oil Level

Learning how to check engine fluids is a crucial part of auto maintenance. If you’ve checked your oil level and determined that you need to add oil, follow these steps:

1. Find the oil dipstick
2. Pull out the dipstick and wipe off the oil with a clean cloth
3. Reinsert the dipstick and carefully pull it back out
4. Check the oil level
5. If levels are low, gradually add oil to the recommended level
6. If oil is dark or gritty, it’s time to schedule an oil change
7. Return for oil change service according to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule

How to Check Coolant Level

1. Find the plastic overflow container next to the radiator
2. If coolant is low, fill to the recommended level with a 1:1 solution of water and antifreeze

How to Check Power Steering Fluid Level

1. Find the power steering fluid tank near the firewall at the base of the windshield
2. Check that the fluid level is within the recommended range
3. Order power steering fluid from our parts center

How to Check Brake Fluid Level

1. Locate the clear brake fluid tank on top of the master cylinder, typically in a back corner of the engine compartment
2. Check that the fluid level is within the recommended range
3. Add fluid to the recommended level, and schedule brake service for an inspection

How to Check Windshield Washer Fluid Level

It’s also important to check car fluid levels for other vehicle systems, including windshield wiper fluid. If you already know how to check engine fluids, checking the wiper fluid level is simple:

1. Find the windshield wiper fluid tank, which should be marked with a windshield wiper icon
2. Add fluid to the recommended level

How to Check Transmission Fluid Level

To check car fluid levels for transmission fluid, follow these steps from our transmission fluid check guide:

1. Locate the dipstick
2. Pull out the dipstick and check the fluid level
3. Inspect the condition of the fluid

Schedule Professional Auto Service in Plymouth, MN

Now that you know how to check engine fluids, why not pick up a few more DIY auto maintenance skills? Learn what to do when your car is overheating, how often to change spark plugs, and more from our team of certified technicians. Then stop by Cornerstone Plymouth, located near Minnetonka at 3901 Vinewood Lane in Plymouth, MN, to see how much you can save on with our current parts and service specials!

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