Back to all

The Right Automotive Fluids for Chicago Drivers

July 6, 2022

All those automotive fluids can be confusing for Chicago drivers. Recent years have brought new grades of engine oil, types of transmission fluid, coolant and brake fluid. The right fluid protects your vehicle and helps it perform at its best. The wrong fluid won't work as well and could even cause damage.

In addition to new grades of engine oil, many vehicles now leave the factory with synthetic oil. People in Chicago should always use the grade recommended by their manufacturer.

All coolant, also called antifreeze, used to be green. Now there are several other colors of coolant sold at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) in Chicago. Each type is designed to protect the cooling system components that are particular to your vehicle. The wrong stuff can void your vehicle cooling system warranty and could even cause engine damage.

Most passenger vehicles on Chicago roads today use either DOT 3, DOT 4 or DOT 5 brake fluid. Your vehicle power brake system is specifically designed to use ONE of these types – you need the right one. Higher numbers do not necessarily mean a higher, upgraded fluid.

Now, the thing is knowing that your vehicle requires specific grades and types of fluids; using the right fluid is good and using the wrong ones is bad. Once you've got that down, it's easy to remember to check with your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) or your vehicle owner's manual to find out which automotive fluids to use.

Give us a call.

Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy)
773-929-3622
1400 West Diversey Pkwy
Chicago, Illinois 60614

 

More articles from Tuffy Chicago

Don?t Skip Out on These! (Vehicle Maintenance Items You Should Never Postpone)

December 14, 2025

Maybe that little sticker on your windshield is giving you the reminder that its time for your vehicle to have an oil change. Youve thought, Aw, I can skip this one and save myself a little money. When it comes to things you should never ignore on your vehicle, timely oil changes are number one... More

Flat Tire? Three?s the Charm (Tire Repair)

December 7, 2025

For most drivers, at some point youre going to have a flat tire. Depending on how it was damaged, it may have to be replaced. But sometimes, a repair will do the trick, as long as the puncture isnt on the sidewall and the hole is smaller than inch/6.35mm in diameter. Here are the three common w... More

10 Things That Are Lowering Your Fuel Economy

November 30, 2025

Regardless of whatever current gas prices may be, if you could use less gas, wouldnt you? Well, here are 10 things that are robbing you of better fuel economy that you can change for the better: Not enough air in your tires. Underinflated tires have a smaller rolling diameter and more res... More