Correct fluid levels are essential to keeping your Ram, Ford, or Chevrolet diesel pickup on the road. Luckily, checking your coolant, oil, brake, and transmission fluid are easy to do, and will save you from a variety of issues down the road. Here’s what you should know about keeping the fluid levels in your truck maintained, from Hendrix Auto Diesel in Scottsville, KY.
Oil and Transmission Fluid - Oil and transmission fluid are both checked by using the dipstick. The oil should be checked when the engine is turned off, while the transmission fluid should be checked with the truck running at operating temperature. If either is too low (or too high), significant damage will occur. Don’t lose an entire engine over a quart of oil that could’ve been added at the gas station.
Coolant - Coolant keeps your engine and transmission at the correct temperature. Coolant leaks can expel a lot of coolant in a short amount of time, and be hard to detect since the liquid evaporates quickly and the system is under pressure. Checking your coolant is easy to do - just make sure if you pull the radiator cap off, you do it once the engine is cold.
Brake Fluid - Brake system leaks are the opposite of cooling system leaks - they can take months to become apparent. Once levels reach a point where the air is allowed into the system, your brakes won’t work like they’re supposed to, and you can’t just put more fluid in to fix the problem. Once air bubbles are allowed into the lines, the whole system must be bled. Luckily, brake fluid is easy to check - just pull the cap off the reservoir and take a look. If you notice a leak, no matter how small, be sure to have it fixed immediately. Also be sure to consult your manual for specifics on procedures and fluid types.
We always check your fluid levels when you come in for maintenance, but it never hurts to check them in between. No matter your repair or maintenance needs, our technicians have you covered. For the best diesel service shop in Scottsville, KY, call or stop by Hendrix Auto Diesel today.
