Everyone knows you need to check your car’s fluids, and nobody knows this better than your Toyota dealer. While all of the fluids are checked as a part of routine maintenance when you bring the vehicle in, you should also be doing this from time to time at home. Checking your oil, coolant, and even your windshield wiper fluid can save you hassle and heartache down the road.

The most basic fluid need your vehicle has is the oil. It doesn’t matter if your car is new or used; the oil keeps the engine lubricated and it needs to be clean and abundant. A good policy is to check your oil with every fuel fill up. Since you’re already standing there waiting, it won’t take any extra time. Just pop the hood and pull out the dip stick. Be sure to have a cloth or paper towel on hand to wipe off the old oil. When you pull out the stick it will always show the highest the oil has been since it was inserted, so it’s essential to wipe it, stick it back in, and pull it out again to measure it. Check your manual to make sure you’re at acceptable levels, and off you go!

Checking your coolant is also important. Without it, your engine could overheat or freeze up. Pop the hood and take a look at the tank; you should see fluid measurements on it as well as the actual fluid level. If you can’t find it, your Toyota dealer can help you locate the tank. If you need more coolant, it’s important to make sure your engine is cold before removing the radiator cap. When the engine is hot the fluid is under pressure, and you could get hurt.

Windshield wiper fluid may not be as important to maintaining your car as the oil or coolant, but running out can still get you in trouble. Imagine that you’re driving down the road, and the car in front of you splashes mud up on to your windshield. You go to wipe it off, but there’s no fluid. You have a smeared mess on your windshield and it’s no longer safe to drive. Check your wiper fluid often, and you won’t have to worry about keeping your windshield clean.

Take it from your Toyota dealer, the time spent checking fluid levels is well worth it. You’ll be confident that you are taking care of your investment and your safety, and both of those are worth a few extra minutes of your time.