Each lubricant in your car plays a specific role in keeping the vehicle running safely and efficiently. Learn everything you need to know about car lubricants through this post that C66 Racing LLC in King George, VA has put together for you.

Your car is a complex machine with countless moving parts that work together to keep you safely on the road. To function properly and avoid damage, many of these parts require the right type of lubrication. Car lubricants reduce friction, prevent overheating, and protect components from wear and tear. Skipping routine lubricant checks or using the wrong type can lead to serious problems down the road. Here's a breakdown of the essential lubricants your vehicle needs and why each one is important.

Remember that this list of car lubricants (as well as how you should go about their maintenance) depends on your vehicle. Don’t forget to consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for specific information for your situation.

Proper lubricant maintenance is key to having a strong vehicle. Call C66 Racing LLC in King George, VA at (540) 623-7905 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to find the best products for your vehicle.

Essential Car Lubricants

1. Engine Oil

Perhaps the most well-known car lubricant, engine oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates moving parts like pistons, valves, and crankshafts, while also cleaning, cooling, and protecting the engine from corrosion. Over time, engine oil breaks down and collects dirt and debris, which is why regular oil changes are so important.

Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals—usually every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the oil and driving habits.

2. Transmission Fluid

Transmission fluid keeps your vehicle’s transmission running smoothly by lubricating the gears and components inside. In automatic transmissions, it also helps with cooling and pressure control. If this fluid is low, dirty, or degraded, shifting can become rough or delayed, and eventually, the transmission can fail.

Transmission fluid should be checked regularly and replaced as recommended—often every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, though this varies by vehicle. Manual transmissions may require a different type of lubricant, like gear oil.

3. Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers, allowing your car to stop when you press the pedal. It's essential for braking performance and safety. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce its effectiveness and lead to brake failure.

This fluid should be flushed and replaced approximately every two years or as specified by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Signs you need a brake fluid check include a soft brake pedal or longer stopping distances.

The best way to keep your engine strong for years to come is to use AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-20 Synthetic Motor Oil, the top synthetic oil in King George, VA.

4. Coolant (Antifreeze)

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, regulates your engine’s temperature and prevents it from overheating. It also protects the radiator and other engine parts from freezing in cold weather. Coolant flows through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat and transferring it away from the engine block.

Coolant should be checked regularly and flushed according to the schedule in your owner’s manual—typically every 2 to 5 years. A low coolant level or dirty coolant can lead to overheating and major engine damage.

5. Power Steering Fluid

If your vehicle uses hydraulic power steering, this fluid helps make steering easier by transmitting power to the steering system. Over time, the fluid can become dirty or leak, making steering feel stiff or noisy. If you hear whining while turning the wheel or notice difficulty steering, it could be a fluid issue.

Many vehicles need a power steering fluid flush every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but some systems are sealed and may not require routine maintenance. Always refer to your manual.

6. Differential and Gear Oil

The differential (which helps your wheels turn at different speeds when you go around corners) and the manual transmission use a thick lubricant called gear oil. This oil protects the gears and bearings from wear and overheating. It usually doesn’t need to be changed often—every 30,000 to 60,000 miles—but neglecting it can lead to costly repairs.

Keep your vehicle lubricated so it can run as expected. Call C66 Racing LLC in King George, VA at (540) 623-7905 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to guarantee your engine will perform good as new for a lot longer!