Hicks Family Subaru
Want to keep your Subaru ready for the long haul? Discover what fluids need to be changed in a car and where to get car fluids checked in Corpus Christi.
Whether you’re commuting through Corpus Christi, packing up the kids for a beach weekend, or heading off the grid for a little peace and quiet, your Subaru is built to handle it all. But to keep it performing at its best, it needs more than just regular gas—it needs clean, well-maintained fluids.
So, what fluids does a car need? And what fluids need to be changed to keep it running smoothly? If you’ve been wondering how to check fluids in your car—or where to get car fluids checked in Corpus Christi—this guide is for you.
At Hicks Family Subaru, we’re more than just a dealership. We’re your partners in keeping your vehicle ready for every adventure, every errand, and every mile in between.
Every fluid in your Subaru serves a critical purpose. Engine oil prevents overheating. Brake fluid helps you stop safely. Coolant protects against extreme temperatures. And that’s just the start.
Over time, fluids break down, get dirty, or simply run low. When that happens, your car can suffer from reduced performance, wear and tear, or costly mechanical issues. Staying on top of fluid checks helps you avoid those headaches—and keeps your vehicle ready for whatever comes next.
And when you’re not sure what to check or when? That’s where we come in.
Here are six key fluids in a car that every Subaru driver should keep an eye on—and what you need to know about each.
This is the one most drivers know about—and for good reason. Engine oil keeps all the moving parts under your hood lubricated and cool. Without it, your engine can overheat or wear out faster than it should.
Most Subarus need an oil change every 6,000 miles or so, but always refer to your owner’s manual. You can check the level with the dipstick under the hood. If it’s low or dark, it’s time to change it.
Transmission fluid keeps your gear shifts smooth and protects against overheating. If it’s low or dirty, your vehicle may hesitate between gears, shift roughly, or make unusual noises.
Some Subaru transmissions are sealed, so checking the fluid requires a professional. Transmission fluid usually needs to be changed around 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on how and where you drive.
Brake fluid helps apply the pressure needed to bring your car to a safe stop. Over time, it can absorb moisture and lose effectiveness.
If your brakes feel spongy or your stopping distance increases, have the brake fluid checked. It’s typically replaced every two to three years.
Coolant regulates the temperature of your engine in hot and cold conditions. It also prevents corrosion inside your cooling system.
Coolant doesn’t need to be changed as often as oil, but checking it regularly is smart. Look at the level in the coolant reservoir—when the engine is cool—and make sure it’s between the minimum and maximum lines.
Not all new Subaru models use traditional power steering fluid, but if yours does, it’s what makes turning the wheel smooth and easy.
If you feel resistance or hear whining when you steer, low fluid could be the reason. Check the reservoir under the hood or stop by for a quick inspection if you’re not sure what your model uses.
This one may not affect performance, but it does affect visibility—and that matters for safety. It’s easy to forget until you need it.
Top off the washer fluid regularly, especially before long drives. The reservoir is usually clear with a cap marked by a windshield icon.
Some vehicles include differential and transfer case fluids, which are common in symmetrical all-wheel-drive systems. These typically need less frequent maintenance but should still be checked during major service visits—especially if you notice changes in handling or hear odd noises while driving.
When it’s time to check fluids in your car—or if you’re not sure what your Subaru needs—Hicks Family Subaru is here to help. We’re located right here in Corpus Christi and proud to serve our local drivers with factory-trained technicians.
From routine oil changes to full fluid inspections, our team will check every critical system and let you know exactly what needs attention. No guesswork, no stress—just straightforward, dependable service.Whether you’re scheduling ahead or need a quick check-in, we’re ready when you are. You can book your appointment online or stop by and ask about our Subaru Express Service for fast, maintenance-friendly visits.
