To keep your Honda running in top condition, you need to maintain it. Checking and replacing your fluids should be at the top of your maintenance checklist. However, when you perform this maintenance task, you'll need to use the right fluids.
What type of fluids does your Honda take? Honda models use specific fluids to ensure that the engine runs smoothly and avoids corrosion. We'll explain all you need to know about fluids to keep your Honda in the best condition. We'll also go over why you should take your Honda for service at your local dealership.
All Hondas need fluids to function. Without these important vehicle components, your Honda wouldn't be able to run properly. Your Honda will need several different fluids to function, including oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. The best option is to take your Honda for service at a local dealership. They'll already have the knowledge and correct types of fluids ready for your vehicle.
What happens if you don't change and replace your fluids? Driving with old or low levels of fluids can be catastrophic for your engine and make driving more difficult. You may be looking at costly repair and replacement bills, a lower vehicle value, poor performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.
For example, driving with low oil levels or oil that's turned into sludge will cause significant damage to your engine. The oil helps to lubricate the engine's parts so that they work efficiently together. When you don't replace your oil regularly, you'll have to deal with premature wear and tear from the engine parts rubbing together.
If your engine coolant gets too low, you may deal with performance issues and damage. The coolant fluid is responsible for making sure that your vehicle stays within the safe temperature zone while driving. When you neglect to replace your coolant, your engine is likely to overheat. Additionally, if the coolant fluid is left for too long, it will corrode other parts of the engine, including hoses, plastics, and metal parts.
For drivers that forget to replace their power steering fluid, there will be a safety issue in the future. The steering fluid allows the driver to turn the wheel with ease. Over time, if the steering fluid is not replaced, drivers will have a difficult time turning the wheel, which could lead to accidents on the road.
Likewise, brake fluids are essential to the safety of everyone on the road. When the brake fluid is not replaced, you'll have a tough time stopping your vehicle when you need to. When you have difficulty braking, it will certainly lead to safety issues, so you'll want to ensure that you replace this fluid according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Forgetting to replace your transmission and windshield wiper fluids can impact the performance of your vehicle and lead to difficulty driving. When you don't replace your transmission fluid, it will lead to rough shifting and loud engine noises. If the windshield wiper fluid gets too low, you could have problems seeing out of your windshield, which could be dangerous for you and other drivers on the road.
The timeline for replacing your vehicle's fluids varies. The fluid you'll need to change the most often is your engine oil. Replacing your oil is typically recommended every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, you should consult your owner's manual for the right timeframe. Depending on the year and model, you may be able to go longer in between oil changes.
When you go to replace your vehicle's fluids, you'll need to use the right types of fluids. For Hondas, you should use a Honda brand for most of your fluids, including the transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. Honda has developed these fluids for specific vehicles to ensure they work properly. Your Honda's owner manual will be the best resource to find out the specific type of fluid you'll need for your vehicle. If you take your Honda for service at a dealership, they'll have the right fluids on hand for your model, so you won't have to worry about it.
There is also a specific Honda brand of oil that is perfect for your model. However, if you decide to change your oil yourself or head to an independent auto shop, you may use another type of synthetic oil. The viscosity of the oil matters, so you should take a look at your owner's manual to find out the right amount for your particular model. This information is found in a section in all Honda models' owner's manuals. You can also find this information located on a sticker placed on the vehicle.
What happens if you don't use the right types of fluids for your vehicle? Depending on the mistake, you could cause damage to your engine and have performance issues. For example, if you mix synthetic oil with conventional oil, it will likely cause lubrication problems, which will lead to engine damage. However, if you use a slightly different viscosity for your oil than is recommended, you may only notice slight performance issues.
Honda vehicles have several different types of fluids needed to function properly. Without them, your vehicle won't run smoothly and may face a host of expensive problems that will need to be fixed. It's important to change your fluids on time and with the correct type. Honda recommends brand-specific fluids to ensure that your car performs well. If you're looking to get your Honda service, you can stop by any Honda dealership to get the right type of fluids for your particular model. Schedule an appointment with our service shop to get your oil changed and other fluids replaced.
