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Brake fluid is a hydraulic liquid used in braking systems to transfer the force generated by pressing the brake pedal to the calipers, which then clamp onto the brake discs to stop the vehicle. This fluid is characterized by unique properties, most notably its high resistance to heat without boiling, and its incompressibility, which ensures precise and effective brake response under various driving conditions.
Brake fluid does more than just transmit hydraulic pressure. It performs several critical functions that help maintain system efficiency and driving safety, including:
1- Protecting brake system components from corrosion and rust
2- Absorbing heat generated by friction, helping preserve performance
3- Resisting boiling at high temperatures, preventing brake fade in extreme conditions
Brake fluid types differ in their heat tolerance, moisture absorption rates, and compatibility with various braking systems. Key differences include:
Selecting the appropriate brake fluid requires considering several factors to ensure compatibility and optimal performance:
- Vehicle specifications: Always refer to the owner's manual for the manufacturer’s recommended type
- Driving conditions: For high-temperature environments or heavy loads, DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 is preferable
- System compatibility: DOT 5 is not compatible with DOT 3 or DOT 4
- Brand reliability: Choose a trusted brand for long-term performance and stability
Over time, brake fluid deteriorates due to moisture absorption and contamination, which affects braking performance. Regular checks are essential. Practical methods include:
- Tool: Small electronic device with a probe
- Method: Dip the probe into the reservoir after warming the fluid slightly by driving
- Result: If moisture exceeds 3%, replace the fluid immediately
- Concept: Pure fluid doesn’t conduct electricity, but contaminated fluid does
- Method: Some devices measure conductivity to assess fluid quality
- Result: Low resistance indicates contamination and the need for replacement
- Tool: A strip that changes color based on fluid condition
- Steps:
- Background: Brake line corrosion releases copper into the fluid
- Method: Special test strips detect copper levels
- Result: If copper exceeds 200 ppm, it signals early corrosion and fluid replacement is necessary
Mixing is not recommended, especially if the chemical compositions are incompatible.
It’s advisable to replace it every two to three years, or every 60,000 kilometers.
Low brake fluid can lead to:
As part of strengthening strategic partnerships among leading companies in the automotive sector, Saleh Cars Group, in collaboration with Petromin, hosted a distinguished official event to unveil the all-new Commander 2026 model.
The ceremony was attended by:
Alongside a number of automotive industry enthusiasts.
The event took place at Saleh Cars Group’s headquarters in Riyadh – Al Thumama Branch, at 3:30 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
The launch showcased the vehicle’s latest features and advanced technologies, reflecting both companies’ vision to deliver cutting-edge models to the Saudi market.
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The differential is a hidden yet vital component that plays a key role in vehicle performance and stability. But do you really know how it works and what types exist?
A differential consists of several interconnected parts that work in harmony to deliver optimal performance:
- Gearbox: Transfers torque from the engine to the rest of the system and contains a set of gears that ensure balanced power distribution.
- Internal Gears: Responsible for determining wheel speed and directing torque based on driving conditions.
- Axle Shaft: Connects the wheels to the differential and ensures smooth and stable motion during driving.
The differential plays a fundamental role in enhancing the driving experience. Its significance can be summarized as follows:
- Allows the vehicle to turn smoothly without resistance or vibration.
- Improves safety by evenly distributing power between the wheels, reducing the risk of losing control.
- Facilitates driving over rough terrain by balancing torque between front and rear wheels, especially in four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Differentials vary depending on usage and driving conditions:
- Open Differential: The traditional type that splits torque between wheels on the same axle. Commonly used in vehicles designed for paved roads.
- Locking Differential: Distributes power equally between wheels, ideal for off-road vehicles requiring high traction.
- Limited-Slip Differential: Reduces wheel spin when traction is lost and offers better control on slippery surfaces.
- Torque-Vectoring Differential: Uses electronic sensors and control systems to precisely distribute torque based on road conditions. Found in high-performance and sports cars.
When the differential begins to fail, several warning signs may appear:
- Unusual noises from the wheels, such as clicking or grinding, which may indicate gear wear or low oil levels.
- Vehicle vibrations during acceleration, often caused by internal damage or improper torque distribution.
- Difficulty steering, especially during turns or on uneven roads, suggesting reduced system effectiveness.
Several factors can lead to differential damage, including:
- Low Differential Oil: Causes excessive friction and internal wear.
- Contaminated Oil: Reduces cooling and lubrication efficiency, accelerating system deterioration.
- Oil Leaks: Result from damaged seals or overheating, leading to insufficient lubrication.
- Heavy or Aggressive Driving: Frequent off-road use or high-speed driving puts extra strain on the system, increasing the risk of failure.
Differential oil is essential for maintaining system efficiency. It reduces friction and cools internal components. Using the correct type and replacing it according to the manufacturer’s schedule is critical. Neglecting oil maintenance can result in complete system failure.
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Did you know a small component in your suspension system could cause you to lose control of your car? The sway bar link plays a critical role in vehicle stability, so how can you tell when it starts to fail?
Also known as a stabilizer link or anti-roll bar link, the sway bar link is a vital component of the vehicle’s suspension system. It connects the front and rear wheels and helps maintain balance during turns.
The sway bar enhances vehicle stability and reduces body roll while driving. Its key functions include:
As a core part of the suspension system, the sway bar link significantly improves driving performance and safety. Its main benefits include:
A damaged sway bar link directly affects vehicle stability and safety. Common warning signs include:
- Excessive body roll during turns: The vehicle leans more than usual, making it harder to control and increasing the risk of skidding
- Unusual swaying on straight roads: Noticeable side-to-side movement may indicate a loss of balance
- Reduced steering responsiveness: The steering wheel feels less precise, especially when changing direction
- Clicking or squeaking noises near the wheels: These sounds often occur when driving over bumps or turning, suggesting worn rubber bushings or lack of lubrication
- Grinding or screeching sounds during braking or turning: This may point to abnormal friction in the suspension system
- Uneven tire wear: One side of the tire may wear out faster, or you may notice patches of worn and intact areas
- Persistent steering wheel vibrations at high speeds: A sign of imbalance in the suspension
- Intermittent vibrations over bumps or curves: Indicates instability or damage in suspension components
- Longer braking distances: The car takes more time to stop, compromising safety
- Difficulty maintaining a straight line: The vehicle may drift unexpectedly, requiring constant correction
The sway bar link, or stabilizer link, wears out over time due to various factors. Key causes include:
To check the condition of a sway bar link, follow these steps for a safe and accurate inspection:
Tip: If you're unsure how to perform the inspection, it's best to consult a qualified technician. Regular checks are recommended to maintain vehicle safety.
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One mysterious number holds your car’s secrets—its origin, engine, safety, and past. Discover how the VIN unlocks everything you need to know before buying, selling, or trusting your vehicle.
Here are the most common places to locate your VIN:
The VIN is clearly visible on the dashboard and can be seen from outside the vehicle through the windshield.
Open the door and look for a sticker or metal plate, usually affixed to the inner frame.
Such as the vehicle registration certificate, insurance policy, or maintenance records. This method is useful if the vehicle isn’t physically available.
On some models, the VIN is engraved on the engine itself. You’ll need to open the hood to inspect it.
The VIN may be stamped on the chassis beneath the car, which might require lifting the vehicle or using a mirror to view it.
Certain websites allow you to search for the VIN using the license plate number, depending on the availability of databases in your country.
Each segment of the VIN provides specific information about the vehicle:
Knowing the VIN is crucial for several reasons:
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The engine is the car’s core, and cylinders convert fuel into motion. Knowing their role helps drivers and enthusiasts make smart choices in buying, maintaining, and understanding vehicle performance.
A cylinder is a precisely engineered, cylindrical chamber typically made from cast iron or aluminum alloys to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Inside it, the piston moves in a reciprocating motion—up and down. Engines vary in the number of cylinders, usually ranging from 3 to 12, and this number directly affects the engine’s performance, smoothness, and efficiency.
The core energy-generating process occurs within each cylinder through a four-stroke combustion cycle:
- Intake Stroke: The intake valve opens, and the piston moves downward, creating a vacuum that draws in the air-fuel mixture.
- Compression Stroke: Both intake and exhaust valves close, and the piston moves upward, compressing the mixture to increase its energy density and flammability.
- Power Stroke: The spark plug ignites the compressed mixture, causing an explosion that forces the piston downward with great force—this motion is ultimately converted into rotational energy that drives the wheels.
- Exhaust Stroke: The exhaust valve opens, and the piston moves upward again, expelling combustion gases from the cylinder to prepare for the next cycle.
Lightweight and compact
Highly fuel-efficient with low manufacturing and maintenance costs
May suffer from limited performance and vibrations, though modern technology has significantly mitigated these issues
Ideal for small urban vehicles
Most common configuration
Excellent balance between performance, efficiency, and operating cost
Provides sufficient power for daily use, though less powerful and smooth than larger engines
Standard choice for compact and mid-sized cars
Relatively rare design
Combines traits of 4- and 6-cylinder engines
Offers good torque at low speeds and a distinctive sound
May experience dynamic imbalance and vibrations
Often found in select European models
Delivers strong and smooth performance due to excellent dynamic balance
Minimal vibrations and a refined sound
Higher fuel consumption, cost, and weight
Best suited for luxury, mid-sized, and sports vehicles
Falls under high-performance engine category
Provides immense power and torque with ultra-smooth operation
High fuel consumption and expensive to buy and maintain
Used in large trucks, sports cars, and luxury vehicles
Here are reliable methods to identify the number of cylinders in your car:
- Check the owner's manual or technical guide provided with the vehicle
- Visit the manufacturer’s official website for full specifications
- Use search engines by entering your car’s make and model along with “number of cylinders”
- Results from specialized websites will provide accurate details
- In some countries, official agencies issue certificates listing vehicle specifications, including cylinder count
- You can request this document from the traffic department or vehicle registration authority
- Open the hood and look for a label with technical information, which often includes the number of cylinders
- Typically, each cylinder has one spark plug
- Counting the spark plugs can give an estimate, though not always accurate—some engines like V8s may have two plugs per cylinder
A 4-cylinder engine is more fuel-efficient and suitable for daily driving, while a 6-cylinder engine offers greater power and smoothness, ideal for high-performance and highway driving—but it consumes more fuel.
Not anymore. Thanks to modern technologies like turbocharging, 3-cylinder engines can deliver performance comparable to traditional 4-cylinder engines while maintaining superior fuel efficiency—making them a great choice for small cars.
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy and operating costs are your main concern, go for a 4-cylinder.
If you value higher power, smoother performance, and better highway or towing capabilities—and don’t mind the extra fuel and maintenance costs—a 6-cylinder is your best bet.
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Have you noticed your car battery draining quickly or your lights dimming unexpectedly? The culprit might be a hidden electrical leak that threatens your vehicle’s overall performance. So how can you detect it—and fix it?
An electrical leak in a car refers to the unintended loss of electrical energy due to a fault in one of the components—such as wiring, the battery, or internal system damage. This malfunction leads to abnormal power consumption, negatively impacting the electrical system and other vital functions like engine ignition, lighting, and auxiliary systems.
The vehicle’s electrical system consists of several essential parts, including:
Electrical leakage can significantly affect vehicle efficiency. Key causes include:
One of the most frequent sources of electrical drain. Car batteries typically last 3 to 5 years, after which their ability to hold a charge diminishes. Excessive use or exposure to harsh environmental conditions may cause internal damage, increasing the risk of leakage.
Electrical wires degrade over time due to moisture, dirt, and high temperatures. Weather conditions or accidents may damage insulation, leading to energy loss.
Using additional devices like chargers or entertainment systems can draw abnormal power from the battery—even when the car is off. Some devices may continue consuming electricity or remain in standby mode, draining energy.
If the alternator or its components (such as brushes) malfunction, the battery may not recharge properly, causing electrical leakage. This prevents the battery from receiving adequate charge and forces it to consume unnecessary power when idle.
Signs that your car may be experiencing an electrical leak include:
1. Difficulty starting the engine or needing multiple attempts.
2. Dim or flickering headlights and interior lights.
3. Rapid battery depletion.
4. Burning smell or smoke, indicating a short circuit or leakage.
Resolving this issue requires accurate diagnosis. For minor cases like loose wires, manual repair using crimp connectors or wire soldering with heat-shrink tubing may suffice. For more complex issues—such as alternator failure, battery damage, or wire corrosion—it's best to consult a specialized workshop. Key steps include:
Check the battery’s health, charge retention, and internal condition.
Inspect wires and components for damage or corrosion that could cause leakage. Immediate repair is essential upon detection.
Technicians use specialized tools to pinpoint the exact location of the leak quickly and accurately, streamlining the repair process.
Once the source is identified, damaged parts—wires, battery, or alternator—are repaired or replaced. Simple issues can be fixed manually using precise techniques like soldering and crimping with heat-shrink insulation for safety and durability.
To maintain your car’s electrical system and avoid future issues, follow these guidelines:
1. Conduct regular electrical system checks during maintenance to ensure wire and battery integrity.
2. Turn off unnecessary electrical devices when not in use to reduce power consumption.
3. Monitor battery condition and replace it when signs of weakness or end-of-life appear.
4. Use high-quality replacement parts to ensure long-term performance and prevent future breakdowns.
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Many drivers overlook the importance of radiator coolant color, assuming it's just cosmetic. But choosing the wrong type can lead to serious engine damage. So, what are the differences between coolant types—and which one is right for your car?
Radiator coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a chemical compound used to regulate engine temperature. Its primary function is to prevent the engine from overheating in hot conditions or freezing in cold ones, protecting internal components from corrosion and damage.
Coolant is typically made from ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, with added corrosion inhibitors and thermal stabilizers.
Coolants used in radiator systems fall into three main categories, each with distinct properties that directly affect engine performance and efficiency:
Although easily accessible, using plain water in the cooling system is unsafe. It contains high levels of salts and impurities that accumulate inside the radiator and engine components, causing corrosion, rust, and long-term damage.
Water also boils quickly and freezes easily, making it unsuitable for temperature fluctuations.
Green coolant is a balanced mixture of water and specially formulated chemicals designed to cool the engine efficiently without reacting with its metal components. Key features include:
- Free from salts and impurities, preventing corrosion and rust
- Boiling point raised to 120°C, making it effective in high-temperature conditions
- Commonly used in older vehicles or those with iron-based components
- Safe and effective, though its lifespan is shorter than other types
Red coolant shares the impurity-free nature of green coolant but offers enhanced features:
- Contains agents that prevent freezing in extremely low temperatures
- Free from silicates, which can cause long-term corrosion in engine parts
- Used in modern vehicles requiring extra protection for sensitive metal components
- Longer lifespan than green coolant, ideal for cold climates
Boiling coolant is a serious warning sign of a malfunctioning cooling system. Ignoring it can damage vital car components. Common causes include:
All coolant types can decrease over time due to mechanical or operational issues affecting system efficiency. Key causes include:
Coolant replacement depends on its type and chemical composition:
- Red Coolant: Recommended every 4 to 5 years due to its long-lasting organic formula
- Green Coolant: Should be replaced every 2 to 3 years, as its protective agents degrade over time
Green contains silicates and has a shorter lifespan; red is silicate-free and lasts longer.
No. Chemical reactions between types can damage the cooling system.
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The Fuel Pump: The Heart of Your Car’s Fuel System, What Happens When It Fails? Discover the key symptoms of a failing fuel pump and maintenance tips before your car suddenly breaks down!
The fuel pump is a critical component in internal combustion engine vehicles. Its primary function is to deliver fuel from the tank to the engine. The pump ensures a steady and regulated flow of gasoline through the fuel system, maintaining engine efficiency.
The fuel pump draws gasoline from the tank and pushes it through fuel lines to the fuel injectors (or carburetor, depending on the vehicle’s system). Some pumps are electrically powered, while others operate mechanically, but their goal is the same: to provide consistent fuel pressure that meets the engine’s demands during operation.
When the fuel pump malfunctions, several warning signs may appear, including:
If any of these symptoms appear, it’s advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician to prevent further damage.
Engine performance depends on the fuel pressure supplied by the pump. If the pressure is too low or too high, it can lead to problems such as:
The fuel pump’s components vary by vehicle but generally include:
Electric Motor: Powers the pump.
To extend the pump’s lifespan and avoid failures, follow these guidelines:
1. Avoid Driving on Low Fuel: Continuously low fuel levels can overheat and damage the pump.
2. Use High-Quality Gasoline: Contaminated fuel clogs filters and strains the pump.
3. Regular Inspections: Early detection prevents major breakdowns and costly repairs.
4. Replace the Fuel Filter Periodically: A clogged filter increases the pump’s workload.