Top 4 Car Maintenance Services That Keep You Safe

From the very first time you were handed those car keys, safety has been the number one lesson of driving. As a mature and experienced driver today, you are just as committed to safe driving as you were back in drivers’ education program. That is why you take very good care of your ride. After all, routine car maintenance is the ultimate foundation of safe driving.

It is important to refer the owners’ manual or your trusted mechanic for information on your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Yet, of all the car maintenance services to outsource from your local auto shop, be sure these 4 always make your list of priorities if you want to stay safe on the road.

Luxury Car Maintenance Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800
Luxury Car Maintenance Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

Car Maintenance For Driving Safety

Car maintenance is important because it keeps your vehicle running smoothly, performing efficiently, and functioning as expected. It can also keep you legal on the road. There are many types of car maintenance services you should be adding to your routine car care program, but of all the ones to choose, these four will contribute the most to your safety:

❶ Car Brakes

Without the ability to stop your car on demand, you are essentially an uncontrollable 5,000 pound missile out on the road. For this reason and more, routine car brake maintenance is the most critical services to outsource for your driving safety. Routine car brake maintenance includes changing outworn breaks as soon as you notice the signs of brake failure, as well as regular replacements of brake pads and brake rotors. Brake fluid is a vital automotive fluid that should also be replaced as needed. Refer to your car owners’ manual for information on when to change your brake fluid.

❷ Exterior Lights

If your night driver, the exterior lights of your vehicle are your first line of defense against anything obstructing your path of driving. Prioritize exterior car light maintenance to ensure your driving safety during nighttime trips. Exterior car lights include headlights (including high beams), taillights, turn signals, reverse lights, and hazards. If your car has some, it is important to ensure that your fog lights are always functional as well.

❸ Windshield Wiper Fluid

Regardless of season or time of year, when should wiper fluid is a vital automotive fluid to have at all times. In fact, you should always keep an extra bottle of it in your trunk. Our line of sight while driving is critical. After all, you can drive a car if you can’t see. Along with exterior lighting, your windshield wiper fluid can play a vital role in your driving safety if your windshield is suddenly splattered with bird droppings, rain, mud, dirt, or any other obstruction is blocking your view.

❹ Additional Automotive Fluids

In addition to you when should wiper fluid, there are several other automotive fluids that are vital for the safety and performance of your vehicle. Not only will these liquids keep you safe on the road, but they will also help you maintain your budget when it comes to car maintenance and auto repair expenses. Basically, if you want to save money, take good care of your car by keeping it lubricated and hydrated. The top automotive fluids that every vehicle requires for efficient performance, safety, and protection against damages includes include motor oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, battery fluid, power steering fluid, and in some cases, differential fluid.

Is your vehicle currently experiencing some mechanical malfunctions or performance issues? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and auto service in Carmel, Indiana. We specialize in all make and model European and German vehicles.

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European Auto Repair and Service - Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800
European Auto Repair and Service – Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

The Difference Between Transmission Fluid and Differential Fluid

Many people use the terms transmission fluid and differential fluid interchangeably, but the two automotive fluids are actually quite different. In fact, knowing the difference is a critical part of good car care. Not sure which fluid your car takes? Always thought they were the same thing? Confused on which fluids your vehicle needs?

Continue reading to learn the difference between transmission fluid and differential fluid, how these fluids work, and more.

Transmission Repair Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800
Transmission Repair Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

Differential Fluid and Transmission Fluid Are Not the Same

When it comes to differential and transmission fluid, there are many differences, but they all lie under the primary difference that separates the two most distinctively: application. Differential and transmission fluid are two different automotive fluids primarily because they serve two difference functions. One fluid is for vehicles with manual gearboxes and the other for automatic transmission vehicles. Which one is which? Let’s take a closer look.

Differential Fluid

Differential fluid, also known as gear oil, is designed for vehicles with manual gearboxes controlled by a clutch, pedal, and stick shift. Manual gearboxes are designed as a two-shaft system, and although this design gives manual cars more oomph, it produces an enormous amount of heat and friction. Differential fluid helps lubricate the inner moving components, thus supporting a smoother operation and protecting the engine from damage.

Key Attributes of Gear Oil:

▶ Thicker Viscosity
▶ Higher Heat Resistance
▶ High Pressure Resistance

Transmission Fluid

Opposite of differential fluid, transmission fluid is designed to work specifically with automatic transmission vehicles. Because automatic transmissions operate at lower degrees of heat and friction, they require a different level of lubrication. Transmission fluid is designed with unique properties that adequately lubricate the engine and support transfer of power.

Key Attributes of Transmission Fluid:

▶ Thinner/Lower Viscosity  
▶ Lower Degree of Heat Resistance
▶ Anti-Foaming Technology

FAQS About Transmission and Differential Fluid:

Can You Use Transmission Fluid in Place of Differential Fluid?

In emergency situations, you can put transmission fluid in your differential, but beware of the lower degree of viscosity compared to differential fluid. Your vehicle will burn through it quickly, so change it out or replace it with the right fluid as soon as possible.

Can I Use Engine Oil Instead of Differential Fluid?

Never, under any circumstances, put engine oil in your differential. This will result in devastating damages to your engine. Engine oil is much different than gear oil, mostly it cannot withstand high pressure. Therefore, engine oil should never be used in place of gear oil.

Will Something Bad Happen if I Use the Wrong Car Fluid?

There are damaging effects of using the wrong fluid in your car. Your vehicle might experience engine overheating, transmission breakdown, and internal engine damage. If you believe you put the wrong -fluid in your car or truck, consult with a licensed mechanic in Carmel, IN right away.

Does your car engine or transmission need some professional attention? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for transmission repair and engine repair service in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in European auto service. Request a free estimate, anytime.

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Transmission Repair Solutions for European Car Owners
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European Auto Repair and Service - Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800
European Auto Repair and Service – Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800