What fluids need to be replaced in my Jeep at what mileage?
Jeep dealerships are equipped to take care of all your vehicle needs, but of course, there is more to maintaining a vehicle than fueling it and taking it in for maintenance every once and a while. Here are major fluids Jeep recommends you check to keep a safe and reliable jeep vehicle:
Engine Oil
Maintaining your engine oil level will properly lubricate your Jeep’s parts. If your oil levels get too low or your Jeep drives over 8,000 to 10,000 miles (depending on your Jeep model and oil type) without an oil change, severe damage can occur. Experts recommend getting an oil change around 6,000 miles. Newer Jeep models will show an “Oil Change Required” message on your jeep dashboard. Experts advise servicing your Jeep within the next 500 miles if the reader flashes.
Engine Coolant
Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) is designed to help keep your Jeep’s engine temperature balanced. In months of extreme heat, Engine Coolant (antifreeze) keeps the engine cool and prevents it from freezing during the winter. Also, the Engine Coolant protects against harmful rust and corrosion.
Yes, Engine Coolant is a lifesaver, but it doesn’t last forever.
Over time, the Coolant weakens, and it is essential to check it every 3 to 6 months and change it every 30,000 miles.
Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield washer fluid helps clean your windshield, whatever the nuisance. Whether it’s the bugs that hit the windshield or you need to clear dirt or anything blurring your road view, windshield washer fluid is necessary to be safe on the road. Windshield washer fluid usually comes in green, blue, and orange with a vast brand selection.
Experts advise checking your windshield washer fluid at least once a month. Those in conditions that require you to use your windshield washer fluid more often check sooner.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid – Jeep Wrangler & Jeep Gladiator
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) reduces hazy Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) into harmless nitrogen and water vapors. This process is called Selective Catalytic Reduction.
You should check your Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) levels every 10,000 miles, but feel free to ask your jeep mechanic about its levels during scheduled oil changes. If your Jeep runs out of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), it will warn you through your jeep dashboard and eventually will not operate over 5 mph.
Front/Rear Axle Fluid (Differential Fluids)
Front/Rear Axle Fluid helps ensure that the differential (system of gears) works in top condition for a long time. Front/Rear Axle Fluid is also known as differential oil and gear oil. It’s found in the axle housing. Front/Rear Axle Fluid helps your Jeep perform under high-pressure situations, rather than extreme temperatures like engine oil. Experts recommend checking your Front/Rear Axle Fluid every 15,000 miles.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is essential for making your Jeep slow down. When you use the brake pedal to decelerate, it turns on the brake plunger inside the master cylinder. The pressure squeezes the brake fluid out of the brake reservoir inside the brake lines, which activates your brake pads to slow down your Jeep.
When checking the brake fluid, if you see that the liquid is dirty instead of clear/transparent and the brake fluid reservoir falls below “full-line,” it’s time to change the brake fluid or add more. Check your brake fluid at least once a year or each oil change, but if you forget, on your car dashboard, there is a red brake indicator that warns when your brake fluid is low. Experts advise a brake fluid flush between 3 to 5 years.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid helps lubricate your Jeep’s transmission to maintain its great performance. Transmission fluid cleans and protects transmission parts from quick wear, and it keeps your transmission parts from operating at dangerously high temperatures.
Experts advise replacing your transmission fluid every 50,000 to 100,000 miles and consider your type of transmission and Jeep usage.
For all other fluid maintenance, Jeep advises scheduling an appointment. If you have any further questions, contact your local Jeep dealership.