Back to catalogue
5 MIN · Module

Topping up essential fluids

Learn which vehicle fluids you can check and when to stop and ask for professional help.

Listen to this module
Tap Play and we'll read the module aloud — free, no account, runs on your device.
Speed

Not every cap is for beginners

You open the bonnet and see several caps, symbols and warning labels. Some fluids are simple to top up, while others need care because they affect safety or contain hot, pressurised liquid. The skill is knowing what you can do safely and when to stop.

Start with washer fluid

Windscreen washer fluid is the easiest fluid to top up. Look for the cap with the windscreen spray symbol, open it and add suitable screen wash mixture. In colder countries or mountain areas, use winter-grade screen wash to reduce the risk of freezing.

Treat coolant with respect

Coolant helps prevent overheating and freezing, but the system can be hot and pressurised. Never open the coolant cap when the engine is hot. If the level is low, check the vehicle handbook for the correct coolant type and seek advice if the level keeps dropping.

Do not guess with brake fluid

Brake fluid is safety-critical. You can look at the reservoir level, but a low level may mean worn brake parts or a leak. Do not simply top it up and forget it. If brake fluid is low, arrange a professional check before normal driving.

Done reading?

Ready to test what you've learned

When you mark this module as finished, the assessment unlocks after a short delay (60 min) so the material can settle into longer-term memory.

Scroll to the end of the module to enable the finish button.