Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/406441
52 g o i n g p l a c e s | W I N T E R 2 0 1 4 ANALYZE This likely a leak or other problem. Have a quali- fied technician inspect the brakes right away. Power Steering Fluid What it does: is fluid powers the steering gear and makes steering easy. Why it's important: Low levels of fluid cause the steering wheel to stick or catch, making it difficult to turn. Note: Fluid that is dark or contains metal flakes are signs of trouble in the steering gear. Coolant What it does: Coolant prevents overheating. Why it's important: Without maintaining a proper coolant level, a car's engine will quickly overheat. Note: Typically, add coolant at the ratio of 50/50 water to coolant. If it's visibly dirty, have the system flushed. J ust as your body needs water, your vehicle needs certain fluids to run properly. When those fluids run low or become contaminated, your car can lose efficiency and engine components can be damaged. Here, see your vehicle's most important fluids – in their clean state – and learn how their proper maintenance keeps your car running smoothly. Motor Oil What it does: Oil lubricates and cools moving parts within the engine. Why it's important: Without proper lubri- cation, engine parts stop moving, possibly damaging the engine beyond repair. Note: Synthetic oil is more expensive than traditional motor oil, but it can last up to three times longer (depending on vehicle condition and use). And because it is changed less fre- quently, it's more environmentally friendly. Transmission Fluid What it does: is fluid lubricates and cools moving parts within the transmission and helps facilitate the hydraulic pressure necessary for changing gears. Why it's important: Transmission gears eventually will wear and fail without adequate lubrication. Note: Depending on the vehicle's typical driving conditions, transmission fluid can last up to 161,000 kilometres. Brake Fluid What it does: Brake fluid trans- fers the proper hydraulic force to pads and shoes, which create the friction necessary to stop the vehicle. Why it's important: If the fluid is low or any air gets into the brake line, you may not be able to properly stop your vehicle. Note: If the brake fluid level is low, there is Fluids 101 Protecting your car's liquid assets by David Monforton