What Fluids Need to Be Replaced in My Honda at What Mileage?

Our cars get us wherever we need to go. And usually, as long as we keep them fueled up, they do a pretty good job at it. But cars rely on more than just gas to operate efficiently. And although the anatomy of your Honda might not be as complicated as the human body, it still incorporates a variety of fluids working together to keep everything running smoothly.

In fact, most issues that affect a vehicle are linked to an imbalance in its fluids. For instance, low brake fluid can result in the failure of your braking system. If this happens, you could get into an accident. In that case, an unscheduled visit to a Honda Bodyshop would be in order. But it doesn’t have to end this way. You can avoid costly repairs by staying on top of your car’s fluid levels.

Even so, which fluids do you need to replace in your Honda? At what mileage should this suffice? Keep reading for answers.

Engine Oil

We’ll quickly go over this one, as most Honda owners know they need to replace their engine oil. Mostly, service frequency depends on the model, among other factors like:

• Driving conditions
• Your driving style
• How you use your vehicle
• The age of your car

Engine oil degrades over time due to exposure to high temperatures in the engine. Honda recommends you change your car’s oil every 3000-5000 miles, although the above variables could increase or decrease your service interval.

Transmission Fluid

Whether your Honda has an automatic or manual transmission, it needs clean transmission fluid to function properly. Basically, the fluid lubricates, cleans, and cools the moving parts inside your transmission. The fitted dipstick on your transmission generally indicates the level and condition of your current fluid.

That aside, most experts recommend a change every three years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. But this depends on your model.

Brake Fluid

As we briefly mentioned, brake fluid is essential to the function of your brakes. More specifically, it helps transfer the force from your pedal to the brake pads. Due to this, you should check and change your brake fluid as recommended in your Honda’s maintenance schedule. Typically, this should be every two years, regardless of mileage.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. When this happens, the fluid degrades and corrodes your brake system. In turn, this reduces the effectiveness of your brakes and can put you and other drivers at risk.

Coolant

A low coolant level can turn a great day into one you wish to forget. For starters, it can lead to overheating, not to mention the expensive repairs that come with it. Plus, it can result in irreversible damage to your engine.

Always keep an eye on your coolant level, especially the reservoir tank, and top it up when needed. Have a dealer replace the coolant once every three years to be on the safe side. But if you use the car more often, consider replacing the coolant earlier, say every two years.

Power Steering Fluid

This fluid is responsible for, you guessed it, the power steering in your car. Over time, the fluid breaks down and becomes less effective. When this happens, you might notice a difference in how your car steers. In some cases, it could also result in the complete failure of your power steering system.

If your power steering system starts to fail, you’ll know it. Typical signs might include a whining noise whenever you turn the steering wheel or a burning smell from under the hood.

Honda recommends checking your power steering fluid level monthly and topping it up if necessary. As for fluid changes, do it at 50,000 to 75,000-mile intervals.

Differential Fluid

Driving a Honda with all-wheel drive implies you’ll need to change the differential fluid as the carmaker recommends. For most models, this is once every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or two years – depending on whether you venture off-road often. Otherwise, your vehicle’s performance will suffer, as will its fuel economy.

Window Washer Fluid

This is one fluid many car owners often forget about. Sure, it doesn’t have a direct impact on the performance of your car. But it’s still an important part of your Honda, especially when visibility is poor. Plus, it helps keep your windshield clean and clear of bugs, dirt, and debris.

Topping up your window washer fluid is easy enough. Simply open the hood, locate the reservoir tank, and pour in more fluid until it reaches the “full” line. Regarding replacement, there’s no need to do it unless the fluid is contaminated.

All the fluids in your Honda directly or indirectly impact its performance. As such, it won’t hurt to check and change them as recommended in your maintenance schedule. Then, you can look forward to many years (and miles) of happy and trouble-free motoring.