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    • For transmissions with a dipstick, the procedure is the same as described for normal transmission fluid.
      Many Fords, Toyotas, GMs and other vehicles no longer have an automatic transmission dipstick for checking the fluid level. Automakers are eliminating automatic transmission dipsticks. Newer transmissions are far more complex than older models and the transmission fluid levels are far more critical. Special procedures are required to check the automatic transmission fluid level in these models.

      What is automatic transmission fluid?

      Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is the fluid used in vehicles with automatic transmissions. It is usually red or green.

      Why check the automatic transmission fluid level?

      Automatic transmission fluid is the lifeblood of the transmission. The fluid produces the hydraulic pressure needed to operate the transmission. It also cools and lubricates the transmission. When the fluid level is low, the pump may draw air into the system. Air in the hydraulic system interrupts the proper flow of automatic transmission fluid. Damage can occur very quickly when transmission fluid is low.

      How to check automatic transmission fluid level?

      For transmissions with a dipstick, the procedure is the same as described for normal transmission fluid.
      Many Fords, Toyotas, GMs and other vehicles no longer have an automatic transmission dipstick for checking the fluid level. Automakers are eliminating automatic transmission dipsticks. Newer transmissions are far more complex than older models and the transmission fluid levels are far more critical. Special procedures are required to check the automatic transmission fluid level in these models.

      If you want to go further, learn how to change automatic TRANSMISSION OIL

      1. Drain the transmission fluid: First, disconnect the cooling line running from the transmission to the radiator. Connect a piece of rubber tubing to the pipe and place the free end of the tube in an empty container. Start the engine and let it idle. Transmission fluid should flow out of the cooling line and into the container. As soon as the fluid stops flowing, turn off the engine. You can then reconnect the cooling line to the radiator.
      2. Remove the bolts holding the drain oil pan to the bottom of the transmission.
      3. Clean the drain pan with transmission fluid.
      4. Replace the filter.
      5. Replace the gasket.
      6. Replace the pan: Once the filter and gasket are in place, put the pan back on the transmission. Hand-tighten the bolts for the first few turns so that you don't strip the threads. Then use a torque wrench to finish tightening the bolts. Do not to overtighten the bolts or you will damage the threads in the transmission and dent the pan.
      7. Fill with automatic transmission fluid: Dexron III ATF is the most common, but refer to the owner's manual to choose the appropriate automatic transmission fluid. Check the amount as well.

    • Just like your engine needs oil to lubricate the different components and protect them against wear and corrosion, your transmission is as well lubricated by special fluid called transmission fluid.

      Maintaining the proper transmission fluid level is important to keep your transmission shifting properly and your car running smoothly.

      How do I check my transmission fluid?

      Just like your engine needs oil to lubricate the different components and protect them against wear and corrosion, your transmission is as well lubricated by a special fluid called transmission fluid.

      Maintaining the proper transmission fluid level is important to keep your transmission shifting properly and your car running smoothly.

      How do I check my transmission fluid?

      • Step 1: Check your owner’s manual. Do you have a manual or an automatic transmission? Manual transmissions don’t usually have a dipstick. They are factory filled. No top-up is needed. The fluid only has to be changed in the event of repairs.
      • Step 2: Locate the transmission dipstick if you have an automatic transmission. The transmission fluid dipstick is usually red (yellow or white for the engine oil dipstick). The owner’s manual will help you to find the dipstick. If you're lucky, it will be labeled
        - On rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the dipstick is usually on the passenger side of the engine compartment, near the back of the engine.
        - On front-wheel drive vehicles, the dipstick is usually on the driver’s side, on one side of the transmission. If you don’t find it, your owner’s manual should show you where to look for it.
        Many cars don’t have a transmission dipstick. The oil level may have to be checked using an electronic device or by removing a screw in the transmission housing. Checking fluid levels in a sealed transmission is a much more complicated process. The average car owner does not have the skills required to check the transmission fluid level. If your car doesn’t have a dipstick have your local transmission shop or dealership check the level. A good time to do this is while you’re having the engine oil changed
        If your car has a transmission dipstick, you should check the transmission fluid level regularly.
      • Step 3: How do you check transmission fluid? or How to check transmission oil
        Remove the stick, wipe it with a clean cloth, reinsert it, leave it in for 5 seconds, then pull back out and check. Add fluid if necessary. Always use the fluid recommended by the manufacturer.
        Add only a little at a time, checking the level with the dipstick each time. It's easy to add transmission fluid, but fairly difficult to remove it if you add too much.
        If the transmission requires more than a quart or is using fluid regularly, take your car in to have it checked for leaks.

      How to properly check the transmission fluid. You can also check the color and smell.
      Color is very important for transmission oil. It should not change from its normal light brown, semi-transparent appearance. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is a cherry red. If it is dark red or brown, you should have your fluid changed

      If it smells burned or has particles in it, you should also have your transmission serviced. What is a transmission service? It consists of changing the transmission fluid filter before adding the transmission fluid.

      Impress your family when they ask you how to check your transmission fluid or how do you check transmission oil.

    • Brake fluid absorbs water from the air. That’s why the boiling point decreases over its lifetime. The result is poor to no braking at all. You should change your brake fluid regularly to keep your brake system working efficiently.
      How to add brake fluid. Check the brake fluid level to ensure it is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. If the brake fluid level is under the MIN mark, see a qualified mechanic.

      How to put in brake fluid and How to fill brake fluid. Before adding brake fluid, you should be aware that this is not usually necessary. There is no brake fluid consumption. Note that worn brake linings or a leak from the hydraulic system could be the reason for low brake fluid. Do not add brake fluid if the brake fluid reservoir is empty or if your brake pedal goes right to the floor. The brake system may have a leak. Don’t use your car until the problem has been repaired by a qualified mechanic.

      A brake fluid change should be done regularly.

      Brake fluid absorbs water from the air. That’s why the boiling point decreases over its lifetime. The result is poor to no braking at all. You should change your brake fluid regularly to keep your brake system working efficiently.
      How to add brake fluid. Check the brake fluid level to ensure it is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. If the brake fluid level is under the MIN mark, see a qualified mechanic.

      How to put in brake fluid and How to fill brake fluid. Before adding brake fluid, you should be aware that this is not usually necessary. There is no brake fluid consumption. Note that worn brake linings or a leak from the hydraulic system could be the reason for low brake fluid. Do not add brake fluid if the brake fluid reservoir is empty or if your brake pedal goes right to the floor. The brake system may have a leak. Don’t use your car until the problem has been repaired by a qualified mechanic.

       

      If you want to know more.

      What’s the difference between brake fluid and power steering

      They are made of different substances and have different purposes. Their viscosities are specifically adapted to each system, brake fluid to the brake system and power steering fluid to the steering system. The elastomers used in these systems are tailored to these special fluids and would be damaged in case of misuse. They should never be mixed.

      What is power steering fluid used for?

      Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in the steering system. The fluid runs through the power steering pump, which pushes the power steering fluid to help you turn the steering wheel.

      How to add power steering fluid?

      Locate the power steering fluid reservoir. It is usually on or near the engine in the engine compartment, and may be plastic. Wipe the reservoir with a clean cloth to check the fill level. There is no steering fluid consumption. The level should be between the Max and the MIN mark on the reservoir. If the fluid level is under the MIN mark, there may be a leak in the system. Please see a qualified mechanic. To keep your steering system in good condition, you should change the fluid occasionally. The steering system is a major safety feature of your car. Only qualified mechanics should work on it. Ask for TotalEnergies products, such as TOTAL FLUIDE LDS, FLUIDE DA or LHM PLUS.

    • Checking antifreeze is very easy.

      There is no need to remove the cap on the radiator. Just check to see if the liquid reaches the “full” mark on the side of the reservoir. If it doesn’t, add a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Some coolants are premixed, so read the instructions on the container to see if you need to add water or can use it as-is.

      Only add water to the coolant system in an emergency. If this happens, you’ll have to do a complete flush and change the coolant if the water concentration is above 60% in the coolant after the top-up.

      Before giving you all the necessary tips to change antifreeze, let’s take a closer look at what antifreeze does.

      What is coolant?

      Coolant is a liquid stored in your car’s radiator. It has two main functions: helping to prevent engine overheating and corrosion and lubricating the parts it is in contact with, like the water pump. What’s the difference between antifreeze and coolant?

      Coolant vs antifreeze:

      A coolant should be always an antifreeze. These fluids keep liquids from freezing at low temperatures and boiling at temperatures over 100° Celsius, which are common in city traffic in the summer. Only the correct mix ratio between antifreeze and water provides the required protection for your cooling system.

      How many antifreeze types are there?

      There are two main groups of antifreeze, mono ethylene glycol-based and mono propylene glycol-based. We recommend you to refer to the owner’s manual to find out which type your engine needs and the correct antifreeze ratio (antifreeze has to be mixed with water). Each antifreeze contains special additives to prevent corrosion of the metal surfaces in the cooling system. Do not mix different antifreezes, which will adversely impact additive performance.

      When to change antifreeze or how often to change antifreeze?

      The automaker specifies how often coolant should be changed. Please check the owner’s manual or ask your dealer or garage.

      How to check antifreeze?

      Checking antifreeze is very easy.

      There is no need to remove the cap on the radiator. Just check to see if the liquid reaches the “full” mark on the side of the reservoir. If it doesn’t, add a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze. Some coolants are premixed, so read the instructions on the container to see if you need to add water or can use it as-is.

      Only add water to the coolant system in an emergency. If this happens, you’ll have to do a complete flush and change the coolant if the water concentration is above 60% in the coolant after the top-up.

      How to flush antifreeze/drain engine coolant, change

      Every car model is different when it comes to changing antifreeze. It can be a little tricky to remove all the liquid. In some cases, several screws have to be removed to flush the system. Refilling the system can be even more difficult when there is air in the top parts of the engine. We, therefore, recommend that you have your dealer change the coolant.

    • Some of you might wonder What is brake fluid? or What is brake fluid for? In hydraulic brake systems, brake fluid transmits the force of your foot on the pedal to the brakes. Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in a car: It’s the connection between the mechanical action of your brake pedal and the brake linings that creates friction to slow your vehicle speed. It’s essential for road safety that you use the right brake fluid and maintain it at the recommended level at all times

      Some of you might wonder What is brake fluid? or What is brake fluid for? In hydraulic brake systems, brake fluid transmits the force of your foot on the pedal to the brakes. Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in a car: It’s the connection between the mechanical action of your brake pedal and the brake linings that creates friction to slow your vehicle speed. It’s essential for road safety that you use the right brake fluid and maintain it at the recommended level at all times

      How do you check the level of your brake fluid?

      • Step 1: Park your car on level ground and put the parking brake on.
      • Step 2: Open the hood and secure it safely.
      • Step 3: Locate the reservoir. It’s easy to find: look for a small, semi-transparent reservoir behind the steering wheel. It’s attached to the brake master cylinder, which is a small metal block near by the brake pedal in the engine compartment.
      • Step 4: Checking brake fluid is fairly simple. You check the brake fluid level by making sure it is between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. It should be a light golden brown color if it’s still usable. If the brake fluid level is under the MIN mark, see a qualified mechanic. Note that worn brake linings or a leak from the hydraulic system could be the reason for low brake fluid

    • To help you find the best brake fluid for your vehicle, you can have a look to the page in our online catalogue dedicated to our TOTAL HBF brake fluids: you’ll find our main brake fluid characteristics, benefits, homologations, the technical data sheet and safety data sheet (MSDS)

    • Brake fluid performances specifications

      • DOT 3 brake fluid

        DOT 3 brake fluids are usually glycol ether-based, but that is not because they are required to be. In fact, FMVSS116 doesn’t precise the chemical composition of brake fluids. It simply dictates the fluid physical properties. However, brake fluid industry has, by consensus, decreed that glycol ether fluids are the most economical way to meet the requirements.

      • DOT 4 brake fluids

        DOT 4 brake fluids are also glycol ether-based but they contain in addition borate esters in order to improve some properties including increased dry and wet boiling points. DOT 4 brake fluids have a more stable and higher boiling point during the early portion of their life, but ironically once the fluid does actually begin to absorb water its boiling point will typically fall off more rapidly than a typical DOT 3 brake fluid. By FMVSS116 standards, DOT 4 brake fluids must have a minimum dry boiling point of 230°C and a minimum wet boiling point of 155°C.

    • Brake Fluids have a limited life, not only because of water absorption but because corrosion inhibitors and stabilizers are depleted over time. Wear particles and rubber fragments will also slowly build up.

      Most automotive professionals agree that glycol based brake fluids, (DOT 3 brake fluid, DOT 4 brake fluid, DOT 5.1 brake fluid) should be flushed, or changed, every 1-2 years. Many manufacturers also require periodic fluid changes to ensure reliability and safety.

      Electronic testers and test strips are commercially available to control brake fluid conditions measuring moisture content.

    • How to check engine oil?

      Most people overlook checking the engine oil. It’s easy to do but can cause major damage requiring thousands of dollars of repairs. You need to check motor oil before any long trip to avoid major damage. In case of use for work, we recommend that you check your oil level daily.

      Checking car oil is quite easy

      We recommend that you check the oil level in the morning when the engine is cold and most of the oil has run down into the engine’s oil pan. The oil pan forms the bottom of your engine and is the reservoir for the engine oil. You will need a clean cloth or paper towels, a can of oil and a funnel. We also recommend wearing disposable gloves. Use only the recommended oil for your engine. Find the right TOTAL QUARTZ engine oil for your engine here.

      Most people overlook checking engine oil. It’s easy to do, but can cause major damage requiring thousands of dollars of repairs. You need to check motor oil before any long trip to avoid major damage. In case of use for work, we recommend that you check your oil level daily.

      Checking car oil is quite easy

      We recommend that you check the oil level in the morning when the engine is cold and most of the oil has run down into the engine’s oil pan. The oil pan forms the bottom of your engine and is the reservoir for the engine oil. You will need a clean cloth or paper towels , a can of oil and a funnel. We also recommend wearing disposable gloves. Use only the recommended oil for your engine. Find the right TOTAL QUARTZ engine oil for your engine at https://www.lubricants.total.com/consumers/our-added-value/answer-your-needs/cars

      How to check your car oil

      • Step 1: Put your car on a level surface and turn the engine off. Make sure the engine is cool.
      • Step 2: Lift the hood and secure it.
      • Step 3: Locate the dipstick: it’s usually a color that stands out (often yellow, red or white). If you can’t find it, check the owners’ manual.
      • Step 4: Check the engine oil With a towel, take the dipstick out, wipe it clean and check the high and the low marks at the tip of the dipstick. The dipstick is immersed in the oil in the oil pan.

      How to check motor oil level. Reinsert the dipstick, pull it out and check the oil. If your engine oil level is below the low mark, you’ll have to add more. Do not fill up over the maximum level.
      Even if your oil is black, it may still deliver the required performance.

      How to top up your oil:

      • Put the dipstick back, being careful that it does not touch anything and pick up engine dirt.
      • Remove the oil filler cap, normally located on the top of the engine. If you cannot find it, check your owner’s manual.
      • Use a clean funnel. If you can’t, turn the container upside down.
      • Pour in the amount necessary.
      • Put the cap back on.
      • Recheck the level to make sure it is below the maximum level. Overfilling can damage the catalyst. Start with a small amount and repeat the procedure as necessary.

    • Engine oil viscosity refers to how easily oil pours at a specified temperature. Thin oils have a water-like consistency and pour more easily at low temperatures than heavier, thicker oils that have a more honey-like consistency. Thin is good for easier cold weather starting and reducing friction, while thick is better for maintaining film strength and oil pressure at high temperatures and loads.

    • Remove your motorcycle oil filter cap, place a tray under the bike and remove the sump plug. Remove the appropriate bolt, which is the biggest one on the sump, usually on the bottom or on the side.

      Once the oil is drained, remove the filter with a wrench.

      Replace the sump plug, tighten to the correct torque setting as recommended in the owner's manual before spinning on a new filter. Smear the rubber filter gasket in clean oil before tightening by hand. Nip it up half a turn with the filter wrench.

      Pour new oil. You can restart the bike after and check for leaks. After that, stop the engine for five minutes and check the level again.

    • How is viscosity rated? The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed a scale for both engine (motor oil grades) and transmission oils.

      Viscosity is notated with the common "XW-XX." The number preceding the "W" rates the oil's flow at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.8 degrees Celsius). The "W" ...

      How is viscosity rated? The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed a scale for both engine (motor oil grades) and transmission oils.

      Viscosity is notated with the common "XW-XX." The number preceding the "W" rates the oil's flow at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17.8 degrees Celsius). The "W" stands for winter, not weight as many people think. The lower the number here, the less it thickens in the cold. So 5W-30 viscosity engine oil thickens less in the cold than a 10W-30, but more than a 0W-30. An engine in a colder climate, where motor oil tends to thicken because of lower temperatures, would benefit from 0W or 5W viscosity. A car in Death Valley would need a higher number to keep the oil from thinning out too much.

      The second number after the "W" indicates the oil's viscosity measured at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius). This number represents the oil's resistance to thinning at high temperatures. For example, 10W-30 oil will thin out at higher temperatures faster than 10W-40 will.

      Monograde oils such as SAE 30, 40 or 50 are no longer used in latest automotive engines, but may be required for use in some vintage and antique engines. Straight SAE 30 oil is often specified for small air-cooled engines in lawnmowers, garden tractors, portable generators and gas-powered chain saws.

    • It’s hard to find high quality motor oils. You can see understand better below the added value of our QUARTZ motor oils compared to “classic” motor oils

      Ordinary engine oils may claim:  TOTAL QUARTZ engine oil truly are:
      « Approved for use in after-sales » Formulated in collaboration with car manufacturers, used for factory fills and recommended for use in after-sales
      « Laboratory-tested » Feature technologies which are approved by manufacturers for their future engines
      « Provide protection » Able to withstand all types of wear, clogging and oxidation in engines and pollution control systems
      « Deliver performance » The winning technology in motorsports competitions of the highest level (Formula One, Rally events, Endurance, Paris-Dakar, etc.)
      « Extended range of applications » Able to combine universal solutions with niche applications
      « A recognised brand » High-profile products that are used in more than 130 countries. TotalEnergies is a partner of some of the world’s biggest manufacturers including Infiniti Red Bull, Renault, Peugeot, Citroën, Lotus, Nissan, Great Wall Motors, Toyota and others
      Supported by the TotalEnergies brand, it sponsors and is a partner of a number of major media events, such as the Copa TOTAL Sudamericana, the release of the film "Robocop", the Facebook engine race, etc.
      « Innovation » At the cutting edge of new "Fuel Economy" direct injection engine developments, hybrid engines, 3-cylinder engines… and engines that excel in all possible ways to reduce friction!

       

      If you want to go even further, discover our lubricants’ homologations, description, technical sheet, safety data sheet (SDS) visit our online catalogue

    • You probably wonder what is the importance of viscosity in your engine.

      The viscosity will determine how easily the oil is pumped to the working components, ...

      You probably wonder what is the importance of viscosity in your engine.

      The viscosity will determine how easily the oil is pumped to the working components, how easily it passes through the filter, and how quickly it drains back to the engine. The lower the viscosity, the easier all this will happen. That is why cold starts are so critical to an engine because the oil is cold, and so relatively thick.

      A fluid’s viscosity is important because it is directly related to its load-carrying capabilities. The greater a fluid’s viscosity, the greater the loads it can withstand. The viscosity of a fluid must be adequate to separate moving parts under normal operating conditions (temperature and speed).

      Knowing that a fluid’s viscosity is directly related to its ability to carry a load, one would think that the more viscous a fluid, the better it is. The fact is, the use of a high-viscosity fluid can be just as detrimental as using too light an oil.

    • Lubricants are always optimized to meet the requirements of international classifications (API, ACEA). However, there are many ways of formulating a specific type of lubricant. Mixing two oils that have equivalent properties will not pose a problem, but final performance cannot be guaranteed. All market oils (petrol engine or diesel, mineral or synthetic) are mixable. However, a blending of two oil qualities lower the superior quality.

      Lubricants are always optimized to meet the requirements of international classifications (API, ACEA). However, there are many ways of formulating a specific type of lubricant. Mixing two oils that have equivalent properties will not pose a problem, but final performance cannot be guaranteed. All market oils (petrol engine or diesel, mineral or synthetic) are mixable. However, a blending of two oil qualities lowers the superior quality.

    • What oil do I use for my car? Your engine needs oil that is thin enough for cold starts, and thick enough when the engine is hot. Since oil gets thinner when heated, and thicker when cooled, most of us use what are called multi-grade, or multi-viscosity oils.

      What oil do I use for my car? Your engine needs oil that is thin enough for cold starts, and thick enough when the engine is hot. Since oil gets thinner when heated, and thicker when cooled, most of us use what are called multi-grade, or multi-viscosity oils.

      What viscosity oil to use in modern cars?

      Today, multi-viscosity oils are used almost exclusively over monograde oils since they function best in changing climates. An SAE 30 motor oil, for example, is consistent with the viscosity of, say, a 5W-30 oil when both are at 210 degrees, but the latter offers better performance in the cold as well. Multi-viscosity oils also contain additives that keep the oil from thinning out as its heated.

      What kind of oil for my car if it’s a modern one?

      Most modern car engines use a 5W30 or 5W40 oil. Modern oils have a lower viscosity. This means they're thinner, helping the engine turn over more easily, and ensuring that the oil can circulate quickly around the engine soon after startup. Thinner oil helps fuel consumption too.

      What oil for my car if it’s an old one?

      Older cars do not run well with these oils, as they are not designed to such tight tolerances. Cars that are 10 years old or older were designed to work with 10W30 or 10W40 motor oil.

      What motor oil to use if it’s a high mileage car?

      High-mileage cars that have over 100,000 miles may even need a 20W50 oil.

    • Any vehicle owner knows that lubricants are vital to the correct operation of your engine :

      • cooling engine hot spots and moving parts,
      • ensuring that engine parts remain clean
      • ensuring leak tightness between engine parts,
      • protecting the inner surfaces of the engine against corrosion,

      Additives bring their help, with the detergent and dispersant additives, and the additives against corrosion.

    • If you are looking for an engine oil guide, you can search for it in our online catalog here.

      You’ll be able to find the recommended motor oil, gear oil, axle oil, brake fluid… for many automotive applications: cars, scooters, motorcycles, trucks and buses, public works vehicles, leisure boats and agriculture equipment. You’ll be able to check all our oil specs and official homologations.

    • The engine oil level should be checked regularly to prevent incidents. A small amount of the oil that circulates in the engine is always burnt (an engine in good condition consumes between 0.2 and 0.5 liters of oil every 1,000 kilometers), but successive top-ups are no substitute for an oil change.

      Accordingly, it is natural that an engine consumes a small amount of oil, which can be offset by top-ups between oil changes; however, excessive need for top-ups can be an indication of mechanical problems (leaks, etc).

    • Semi-synthetic and synthetic oils are made from non-conventional bases using sophisticated chemical processes which confer special properties to the finished product. First, the high level of viscosity of the base oils used gives the finished lubricant remarkably stable viscosity whatever the temperature.

      Semi-synthetic and synthetic oils are made from non-conventional bases using sophisticated chemical processes which confer special properties to the finished product. First, the high level of viscosity of the base oils used gives the finished lubricant remarkably stable viscosity whatever the temperature. This property is one of its major advantages over mineral oils, made from conventional bases which require a greater number of additives in order to improve viscosity. The stability of lubrication in all temperatures guarantees optimum efficacy in the cold starting phase which is particularly demanding on the engine ? as well as under conditions of extreme heat. Synthetic-based lubricants show greater resistance to oxidation, which gives them longer effective life thus guaranteeing longer engine life. The use of non-conventional bases, finally, permits the elaboration of more fluid lubricants, without being more volatile; resulting in a reduction of oil consumption.

      Therefore, choosing a synthetic based oil is the technologically advance choice, for greater efficacy, longevity and controlled oil consumption

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