The types of brake fluid, their importance and uses of each type
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What is Brake Fluid?
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.
Why is Brake Fluid Important?
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
What’s the Difference Between DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 Brake Fluids?
Brake fluid types differ in their heat tolerance, moisture absorption rates, and compatibility with various braking systems. Key differences include:
DOT 3
- - Dry boiling point: approximately 205°C
- - Wet boiling point: around 140°C
- - Moderate moisture absorption
- - Suitable for regular driving in mild conditions
- - Compatible with DOT 4 and DOT 5.1
- - Loses about 25% of its boiling point when absorbing 3% moisture
DOT 4
- - Dry boiling point: approximately 230°C
- - Wet boiling point: around 155°C
- - Absorbs moisture faster than DOT 3
- - Preferred for mid-performance vehicles or hotter climates
- - Compatible with DOT 3 and DOT 5.1
- - Loses about 50% of its boiling point when absorbing 2% moisture
DOT 5.1
- - Highest boiling points: dry at around 260°C, wet at 180°C
- - Highest moisture absorption rate
- - Ideal for high-performance or heavy-use vehicles
- - Compatible with DOT 3 and DOT 4
How to Choose the Right Brake Fluid
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
How to Easily Check Brake Fluid Condition
Over time, brake fluid deteriorates due to moisture absorption and contamination, which affects braking performance. Regular checks are essential. Practical methods include:
Moisture Measurement
- 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
Electrical Conductivity Test
- 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
Chemical Test Strip
- Tool: A strip that changes color based on fluid condition
- Steps:
- - Dip the strip into the fluid for a few seconds
- - Wait one minute and compare the color to the reference chart
- - Result: Significant color change indicates moisture or impurities; fluid should be replaced
Copper Content Measurement
- 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
Can You Mix Different Brake Fluid Types?
Mixing is not recommended, especially if the chemical compositions are incompatible.
When Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?
It’s advisable to replace it every two to three years, or every 60,000 kilometers.
What Happens If Brake Fluid Runs Low?
Low brake fluid can lead to:
- - Reduced braking response
- - Warning light activation on the dashboard
- - Air entering the system, increasing the risk of brake failure
The Hidden Dangers of Using the Wrong Radiator Fluid
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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?
What Is Radiator Coolant?
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.
Types of Radiator Coolant and Their Differences
Coolants used in radiator systems fall into three main categories, each with distinct properties that directly affect engine performance and efficiency:
1. Regular Water
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.
2. Green Coolant
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
3. Red Coolant
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
Causes of Coolant Boiling in the Radiator
Boiling coolant is a serious warning sign of a malfunctioning cooling system. Ignoring it can damage vital car components. Common causes include:
- Faulty Thermostat: Regulates coolant flow between the radiator and engine. If it fails, the engine doesn’t receive adequate cooling, leading to overheating and boiling.
- Cooling Fan Failure: The fan plays a crucial role in cooling the radiator. If it stops or underperforms, engine temperature rises, causing the coolant to boil.
- Damaged Radiator Cap: Should be replaced every two years. A worn or loose cap affects system pressure and reduces the radiator’s ability to maintain proper temperature, contributing to boiling.
Causes of Coolant Loss in the Radiator
All coolant types can decrease over time due to mechanical or operational issues affecting system efficiency. Key causes include:
- Faulty Thermostat: Disrupts temperature regulation, leading to coolant loss
- Cooling Fan Malfunction: Reduces radiator cooling, increasing coolant consumption
- Water Pump Failure: Responsible for circulating coolant to the engine; any damage causes noticeable fluid loss
- Leaks or Cracks: In radiator pipes or the reservoir tank, leading to gradual coolant reduction
- Heavy A/C Usage: Prolonged use increases pressure on the cooling system, accelerating coolant consumption
When Should You Change Your Coolant?
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
What’s the difference between green and red coolant?
Green contains silicates and has a shorter lifespan; red is silicate-free and lasts longer.
Can you mix coolant colors?
No. Chemical reactions between types can damage the cooling system.
Launch event of the new 2026 Commander
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:
- Terence Patrick Perrin – Chief Executive Officer
- Rami Hankir – Senior Executive Director
- Elias Abu Hasira – Executive Director of Wholesale Sales
- Rohit Verma – Executive Director of Marketing
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.
Car carburetor, symptoms of damage and how to fix it
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Top Signs of Failing Spark Plugs and How They Affect Your Engine
Did you know faulty spark plugs could be the hidden reason behind poor engine performance? Discover the warning signs before they lead to bigger, costly problems!
What Role Do Spark Plugs Really Play in Engine Performance?
- Though small in size, spark plugs are critical to engine operation. Each cylinder is equipped with a spark plug that precisely generates a high-voltage spark, igniting the air-fuel mixture and powering the combustion process.
- Over time, even the most durable spark plugs designed to withstand millions of combustion cycles can degrade. As they wear down, their ability to produce a strong, consistent spark diminishes, directly affecting engine efficiency and overall performance.
Key Signs of Failing Spark Plugs You Shouldn’t Ignore
- If you notice your vehicle using more fuel to cover the same distances, worn spark plugs could be the cause. Weak or inconsistent sparks lead to incomplete combustion, wasting fuel. In such cases, a thorough inspection by a qualified technician is recommended—and full replacement may be necessary.
- Struggling to start your car, especially in the morning, or experiencing sluggish acceleration and jerky movement while driving, can indicate faulty spark plugs. In severe cases, the engine may fail to start entirely, requiring towing to a repair shop.
- Thick black smoke is often a sign of an imbalanced air-fuel ratio in the combustion chamber. Failing spark plugs can disrupt proper ignition, leading to unburned fuel, increased emissions, and noticeable engine roughness especially under throttle.
What Can Faulty Spark Plugs Do to Your Car?
When spark plugs start losing efficiency, the impact goes far beyond just ignition—your entire driving experience can suffer. Here are some of the most common and noticeable effects:
- Reduced Engine Performance: Drivers may feel a drop in power and torque, especially during acceleration.
- Unexplained Increase in Fuel Consumption: Incomplete combustion caused by weak sparks leads to higher fuel usage.
- Difficult Engine Starts: Especially noticeable in cold weather or after the vehicle has been sitting overnight.
- Higher Emissions: Poor combustion contributes to elevated levels of harmful exhaust gases, negatively affecting the environment.
- Carbon Buildup in the Engine: Unburned fuel and residues can accumulate, accelerating wear on internal engine components.
- Higher Long-Term Maintenance Costs: Ignoring faulty plugs can lead to more serious engine issues and higher repair bills.
- A Rough, Uncomfortable Driving Experience: Misfires, engine hesitation, and vibrations all reduce driving comfort and reliability.
What Causes Spark Plugs to Fail Prematurely?
Spark plug failure isn’t always due to age or mileage external factors often accelerate wear and reduce their lifespan. The most common causes include:
- Poor grade fuel leads to carbon buildup inside the combustion chamber, reducing spark plug efficiency and shortening their service life.
- Issues like low voltage or damaged ignition wires can cause spark plugs to wear out faster than expected.
- Contaminants like oil or water can damage spark plugs quickly, disrupting the ignition process or rendering the plugs unusable.
- Repeated cold starts and aggressive engine revving place additional strain on spark plugs, accelerating electrode wear.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of Spark Plugs?
- The lifespan of spark plugs depends on their type, build quality, engine design, and driving conditions. Generally, standard spark plugs last between 30,000 and 50,000 kilometers, while high-performance plugs such as those made of iridium or platinum can last up to 100,000 kilometers or more.
- However, these figures are not universal. Actual lifespan varies depending on driving habits, fuel quality, and overall engine health. Regular inspections are key to ensuring timely replacement and avoiding performance issues.
Essential Tips to Extend the Life of Your Spark Plugs
To prolong spark plug lifespan and prevent hard-start issues, follow these simple yet effective tips:
- Inspect spark plugs during every oil change to ensure optimal performance.
- Premium fuel helps minimize carbon buildup and keeps the combustion chamber clean.
- Frequent driving on rough terrain puts extra strain on the engine and ignition system.
- Replace Filters Regularly Especially air and fuel filters, as clean filters reduce the load on spark plugs.
- Watch for Early Warning Signs Such as increased fuel consumption or engine vibrations addressing issues early prevents costly repairs.
Why Your Car Might Suddenly Emit Smoke: Understanding the Role of Freon and A/C System Efficiency
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Thick Smoke While Driving? Here’s What It Could Mean, You may suddenly notice thick smoke coming from your car while driving—an alarming sign that often indicates a technical issue. One possible cause involves your vehicle’s air conditioning system, particularly if it has a Freon leak or malfunction. But what exactly is Freon, and how does it work?
What Is Freon?
- Freon is the commercial name for refrigerants used in cooling and air conditioning systems, such as refrigerators and car A/C units.
- It is a type of halocarbon compound known for its ability to absorb heat and convert it into liquid form, which facilitates the cooling process for air and surfaces.
Freon’s Role in Your Car’s A/C System
Freon plays a crucial role in cooling your vehicle’s interior by operating as a thermal transfer medium in a continuous cycle:
1. Compression Stage
The compressor compresses Freon gas, increasing its temperature and pressure.
2. Condensation Stage
The high-pressure gas moves to the condenser, where it loses heat and becomes a high-pressure liquid.
3. Expansion Stage
The liquid passes through an expansion valve, where its pressure drops suddenly, causing it to evaporate and become a very cold gas.
4. Cooling Stage
This cold gas enters the evaporator, where it absorbs heat from the warm cabin air. The now-cooled air is circulated into the car interior.
5. Cycle Repeat
The Freon gas returns to the compressor, and the cycle continues.
This process is:
Dynamic and continuous while the A/C is running
Sealed with no expected Freon loss
Dependent on physical changes in the Freon between gas and liquid states
Powered by the engine, which drives the compressor
What Determines the Efficiency of a Car’s A/C System?
The system’s performance depends on:
- Correct Freon level
- Proper functioning of all system components
- The type of Freon used (e.g., R134a or R1234yf)
- Maintaining optimal system pressure, as recommended by the manufacturer
Types of Automotive Freon
1. R-12 Freon
Once common, R-12 was phased out after 1994 due to its harmful environmental impact when leaked.
2. R-134a Freon
A replacement for R-12, it is less harmful to the environment but slightly less efficient in cooling.
3. R-1234yf Freon:
Introduced around 2014 and widely adopted after 2021, this is the most eco-friendly option. It decomposes into non-toxic compounds within 10 minutes when released into the air and offers cooling efficiency similar to R-134a.
Symptoms of Low Freon in Your Car
1. Warm Air from A/C Vents, The most noticeable sign—reduced cooling efficiency or warm air blowing even with the A/C set to max.
2. Compressor Malfunction
With low Freon, the compressor may shut down to avoid damage. Signs include:
- Compressor not engaging
- Repetitive clicking or tapping sounds
- inactive magnetic clutch
- Pulley not rotating when A/C is on
3. Visible Freon Leak:
Freon is mixed with lubricant oil, so leaks often leave oily, dark, sticky stains near:
- Pipe connections
- Compressor joints
- Charging ports
- Condenser and evaporator fittings
4. Frozen A/C Lines, a drop in system pressure due to Freon loss can cause the evaporator or suction lines to freeze.
5. Increased Fuel Consumption, The compressor may run for longer or more frequently to compensate for poor cooling, placing extra load on the engine and raising fuel use.
6. Chemical Smell Inside Cabin, Large leaks can release a chemical, ether-like odor noticeable when the A/C is turned on.
7. Low-Pressure Warning on Dashboard, in modern cars with electronic monitoring, a dashboard warning may indicate low refrigerant pressure.
What to Do if You Suspect a Freon Leak
1. Turn off the A/C immediately to prevent compressor damage.
2. Visit a certified technician as soon as possible.
3. Don’t add Freon yourself without a thorough system check.
4. Repair any leaks before recharging the system.
5. Use only the manufacturer-recommended Freon type.
Does Freon Need Regular Replacement?
- Freon is designed to maintain its properties over time as it circulates in a closed system. Therefore, under normal conditions, there is no need to replace or recharge Freon periodically.
- However, if a leak occurs due to component failure, a recharge is necessary after repairs to restore system functionality.
Understanding Your Car’s Water Pump, Importance, Components, and Signs of Failure
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Did you know that the water pump could be the cause of your car’s engine overheating suddenly? This small component functions as the heart of the cooling system. So, how can you tell if it's malfunctioning?
What is the Water Pump in a Car?
- The water pump is a vital part of a vehicle's engine cooling system. It plays a key role in circulating coolant (a mixture of water and antifreeze) through the engine and radiator to ensure that the engine stays cool and prevents overheating.
- The efficiency of the engine relies heavily on the performance of the water pump, making it essential for every car owner to understand its components, functions, and the symptoms of failure.
Functions of the Water Pump in a Car
1. Circulating Coolant
The water pump circulates coolant through the engine and radiator to absorb heat and carry it away from the engine's internal parts, keeping the temperature within a safe range.
2. Engine Temperature Control
The continuous flow of coolant ensures that the engine stays at an optimal temperature, improving its efficiency and reducing the likelihood of damage caused by excessive heat.
3. Even Heat Distribution
The pump prevents the formation of hot spots within the engine, which could deform or damage metal parts over time.
4. Supporting the Cooling System Components
The water pump helps the coolant reach the radiator, where it is cooled before being recirculated, and ensures that any coolant loss is replenished through the reserve tank.
Components of the Water Pump in a Car
The water pump consists of several parts that work together to ensure the system operates efficiently:
1. Pump Housing
The outer casing, usually made from aluminum or cast iron, contains channels through which the coolant flows.
2.Rotating Shaft
The shaft connects the pump to the engine belt or gears, transferring the motion to the internal fan.
3. Fan
A wheel with blades that spins to push the coolant through the cooling system.
4. Bearings
These reduce friction during the rotation of the shaft, extending the pump's lifespan.
5.Mechanical Seal
This prevents coolant leakage, and damage to this seal is one of the most common causes of pump failure.
6. Pulley
The pulley connects the pump to the engine belt to transfer motion.
7. Outer Casing
This ensures that the pump is sealed tightly and prevents coolant from leaking at the connection points with the engine.
How Does the Water Pump Work in a Car?
The water pump operates according to the following steps:
- When the car starts, the engine belt moves, causing the pump pulley to rotate.
- The rotation is transferred to the internal fan, which spins rapidly, generating centrifugal force.
- The fan draws coolant from the reservoir or radiator and pushes it through the engine’s channels.
- The heated coolant flows into the radiator, where it is cooled by air or the radiator fan.
- The cooled coolant returns to the pump, and the cycle starts again, maintaining a stable engine temperature.
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Water Pump
Warning signs that the water pump may be failing include:
1. Coolant Leaks
If you notice coolant puddles or colored spots under the car, it indicates a malfunction of the mechanical seal or casing.
2. Squealing or Grinding Sounds
These noises suggest that the bearings are damaged or that the internal parts are rubbing against each other.
3. Overheating Engine
If the pump is unable to circulate the coolant properly, the engine temperature could rise dangerously.
4. Corrosion and Rust
Wear and tear from corrosion can reduce the efficiency of the pump, possibly clogging the channels.
5. Frozen Pump in Winter
Using unsuitable coolant in winter could lead to the pump freezing, rendering it inoperable.