4 Signs Your Vehicle Needs Fluid Services

Your vehicle relies on a variety of fluids to operate safely and efficiently engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, and more. These essential fluids keep components lubricated, reduce friction, prevent overheating, and extend the life of your vehicle.

Fluid services sometimes referred to as lubrication services involve inspecting, replacing, or topping off these fluids and evaluating parts like filters, door hinges, and even the undercarriage. It's routine maintenance that often prevents major problems down the road.

Here are four warning signs your vehicle might need a fluid service ASAP:

1. Dashboard Warning Lights Are On

If your check engine light or oil pressure lamp comes on, don’t ignore it. While the check engine light can indicate multiple issues, the oil lamp is usually tied directly to your engine oil level or pressure a clear indicator that your oil may be dirty, low, or leaking.

Need help fast? Schedule an oil change and fluid service with our certified techs in Burien.

2. Your Exhaust Smoke Has Changed Color

Healthy exhaust is usually invisible or light vapor. But if you notice blue, gray, or white smoke, it could mean fluids like oil or coolant are leaking into the combustion chamber.

• Blue smoke: Often means oil is burning.
• White smoke: May suggest a coolant leak.
• Gray smoke: Can be a mix of contaminants or failing gaskets.

Changes in exhaust color shouldn’t be ignored get a diagnostic inspection as soon as possible.

3. You Hear Grinding or Knocking Noises

Unusual sounds coming from your engine bay or transmission can signal that moving components are no longer being properly lubricated. Low or degraded fluids increase friction, which leads to grinding, whining, or clunking noises.

Don’t wait for it to get worse our transmission fluid services and lubrication checks can identify and fix the problem early.

4. Low Oil Pressure or Cold Oil Temperature

Your oil pressure gauge and oil temperature readings are important indicators of lubrication health:

• Low oil pressure: Oil isn't circulating properly, risking engine damage.
• Low oil temperature: Oil isn’t heating up enough to build pressure.

Both of these mean your engine isn’t being protected like it should. A fluid flush or oil change may be needed right away.

Need Fluid Services in Burien? ABC Auto Repair Has You Covered.

From oil changes to coolant flushes, brake fluid replacements, and everything in between, ABC Auto Repair in Burien provides full-service fluid maintenance to keep your vehicle running like new.