Tools Needed: None
Time Needed: 5-10 minutes

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Notes: You will want to have a rag or paper towel handy to wipe off the the dipstick and any fluids you may spill when refilling. When checking fluids it is recommended to have just driven the vehicle for several miles. This ensures that all the fluids are at their normal operating temperature and density. Also, always remember to check fluids on a level surface.

Precautions: When checking your engine coolant, never remove the radiator cap if the car is running or is warm to the touch. Wait until the radiator has completely cooled before removing the cap.

As you check the fluids, note their color and texture. The oil should be a light golden brown (not black) and should have a consistency slightly thicker than cooking oils. Transmission fluid should be free from debris and have a pinkish color. Radiator fluid should have a bright green color and have a thin water-like consistency. If your fluids vary from this description considerably, you may want to consult with your auto mechanic.

Finally, before making any adjustments to your motor vehicle, even those as simple as adding fluids, it is always a good idea to consult your owner's manual to insure that your auto does not require any special handling.

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First, check your engine oil.

Locate the engine oil dipstick and remove it completely from the small tube attached to your engine. (Frequently, this dipstick will have a large or brightly colored handle to aid you in locating it.) Cars with an automatic transmission will have a second dipstick that is used to check the transmission fluid level. This dipstick is rarely as obvious as the engine oil dipstick.

After removing the dipstick, wipe it clean with your rag or paper towel. Notice the end of the dipstick opposite the handle. It will be marked in some manner to indicate the "full" and "low" levels of the oil. The markings may be notches, holes, lines, or engraved text.

Place the dipstick into the tube from which it was removed being sure to insert it completely. Remove it again and check the level on the dipstick. If the oil is low, add only enough oil to bring the level up to the full mark. Oil is added to the engine by removing the screw cap on the top of the engine.

Check the oil a final time to insure that it is indeed full, then fully reinsert the dipstick.

Check the transmission fluid (automatic transmission only).

On most vehicles, the transmission fluid is checked "hot," or while the car is running. Begin by turning on your vehicle and let it run for a minute while you locate the transmission dipstick. After you have located the dipstick, remove it and wipe it clean with the rag.

Notice the markings and reinsert it fully. Remove the dipstick again, and check the level of the fluid. If the fluid is low, transmission fluid will need to be added. On most vehicles, transmission fluid is added directly to the tube from which you removed the dipstick. Use a narrow funnel and add only enough fluid to raise the level to full.

Check your engine coolant.
NEVER OPEN THE RADIATOR CAP IF IT IS HOT, YOU COULD BE SEVERLY BURNED BY THE SCALDING PRESSURIZED COOLANT!

That being said, look under the hood and note if your vehicle has a coolant resevoir. The resevoir is usually located on either side of the radiator and is usually a clear or lightly colored plastic. If your auto does not have a resevoir, remove the radiator cap and check the coolant level in the radiator. (Again, please do not check the coolant level if your car has not completely cooled down.) If the level is low, add a 50/50 mixture of water and radiator fluid to the resevoir. If your auto does not have a resovoir, fill the radiator to approximately one inch below the neck.

Check the brake, power-steering, and windshield wiper fluid.

On most newer cars, the brake fluid can be checked simply by looking at it's level through the master cylinder. Late model vehicles are often equipped with a master cylinder that is at least partially translucent. Older vehicles without translucent master cylinders must be opened to be checked.

It is normal for the level of brake fluid to gradually decrease as the brakes wear. It is not necessary to continually top off the fluid as long as the level remains above the minimum mark.

Power steering can be checked on autos equipped with this feature simply by removing the screw top lid from the fluid resevoir. In most vehicles, the dipstick is attached directly to the cap. The dipstick should be marked for checking levels either "hot" or "cold."

Although it has little real effect on the vehicle's operation, it is always a good idea to take an extra second or two and top off your windshield wiper fluid. The resevoir for wiper fluid is usually well marked with a symbol of windshield wipers or text indicating that it is the windshield washer fill. Remove the cap and pour the fluid directly into the resevoir.

As always, consult your owner's manual or your local auto mechanic should you have any questions or concerns about the proper care for your car.

Related:
Quick Tips: Fluid Leaks
Looking At Leaks