So, you know that your vehicle has a lot of fluids that need regular checking, right? RIGHT??? If you don’t, consider yourself schooled. Especially with winter coming, you’re going to want to be intimately familiar with everything under the hood of your vehicle, even if it means getting your hands a little dirty. For those of you who don’t know the ins and outs of every fluid that’s running through your engine, here’s a quick primer and guide for how to make sure everything is running well and copacetic.

1. Engine oil. This, if anything, is what your vehicle absolutely cannot do without. The engine oil keeps everything lubricated and moving easily, and it also removes residue and prevents buildup in your engine. If there is a lot of, well, gunk, in your engine, your car will not perform as well as it can. The way to check the engine oil is to locate the dipstick, which is usually a little yellow handle that’s labeled “engine oil” near the engine and to pull it out. Wipe it clean with a paper towel or clean rag, dip it in again, and then pull it out and look at it. Make sure that the oil is at the middle of the two markers on the end of the stick. If it’s low, you can top up the oil yourself. Make sure you’re using the right kind of oil by checking your owner’s manual or asking your dealer. If it’s a little high, that’s fine. Your dealer will tell you when you need to change your oil, but you should be checking your oil at least once a month to make sure everything is okay under the hood.

2. Coolant. Near the radiator is a clear overflow plastic container. The coolant level can be seen through the plastic, and there will be a line that indicates the level that the fluid should reach. Make sure it’s at this level – if it’s not, take your car into the dealer or garage and have them top it up for you with the correct coolant for your vehicle.

3. Power Steering Fluid. At the base of your windshield is a small tank that contains your power steering fluid. This makes it easier to steer your car, believe it or not. Without this fluid, the steering mechanism will not work properly. The level of this fluid should be between the minimum and maximum levels indicated on the tank.

4. Brake Fluid. This is located in a clear reservoir with minimum and maximum lines marked on it. Fill it up with clean, new brake fluid if the level is low, but if it is low you should watch it closely and have the system checked. Low brake fluid could mean that there is a leak in your system or that your brake pads are wearing down.

5. Windshield Washer Fluid. The most basic of them all. Make sure that your washer fluid tank is full at all times. In the winter, this can be useful for helping to defrost your windshield, and in the summer the fluid can reduce glare from the sun and clear off dust and pollen from your windshield, making it easier for you to see where you’re going!