Are you just getting into learning about your vehicle? Great! Here are five fluids that you need to know. (Can you tell this is the Quick And Dirty Car Fluids Blog?)

1. Oil

   1. What it does: cools your engine, lubricates moving parts, keeps moving parts clean

   2. What to do: change it regularly (dealer recommendation) and check it monthly

2. Coolant

   1. What it does: regulates your vehicle’s temperature.

   2. Where to find it: in a reservoir near the radiator.

   3. What to do: if the level is low (level is indicated on the reservoir) take your vehicle to the shop to get coolant topped up.

3. Power Steering Fluid

   1. What it does: helps you steer the vehicle

   2. Where to find it: reservoir at the base if windshield.

   3. What to do: same as above, if the level is low take your vehicle to the shop to get the fluid topped up.

4. Brake Fluid

   1. What it does: helps braking mechanisms work properly

   2. What to do: if the level is chronically low, your brakes could be wearing out.

5. Windshield Washer Fluid

   1. What it does: helps clean windshield of dust, debris, bug guts, etc.

   2. What to do: if you run out, get more at your local gas station and just refill the clearly labeled tank.