When it comes to car care, a vehicle owner’s manual, also called a car owner’s manual, is one of the most overlooked car-related documents that most people do not care to read. But people may not realise that this manual holds the key to optimal vehicle maintenance.
From choosing the right engine oil to knowing when to check your brake or transmission fluids, the manual offers specific and brand-approved advice that can significantly extend your vehicle’s life.
It covers one of the most important pieces of information about picking the right lubricants.
The manual can get super confusing, which is why we’re diving deep into how you can read it for lubrication tips. But first, we will explore the different types of lubricants, so you can understand and implement the tips more effectively.
Car Lubricants 101: Things To Know Before You Read The Manual
Let’s learn about the type of lubricants used in a car that you will likely come across in your car manual book. Spoiler: it’s more than just engine oil! There is not one but almost seven types of lubricants that are used in a vehicle.
Engine Oil
By preventing metal-on-metal contact, this vital lubricating fluid reduces friction, thereby preventing excess heat generation and potential component damage. Engine oil helps to avoid the accumulation of sludge inside the engine, thereby maintaining its cleanliness and smooth operation.
We Recommend: Divyol Spectro LX 10W30 S
Brake Fluid
This crucial hydraulic fluid enables your car to stop or slow down quickly. It works by transmitting and increasing the force applied to the brake pedal. Thus, it helps to generate the pressure needed to engage the brake system and stop the wheels.
In addition to transferring force, brake fluid also dissipates heat generated during braking, reducing component wear and ensuring smooth operation.Hence, maintaining the correct brake fluid level and quality is essential for effective and responsive braking.
Transmission Fluid
Smooth gear engagement is necessary, whether your car is manual or automatic. It helps avoid grinding or slippage. Transmission oil keeps the vehicle’s gearbox running smoothly and protects it from damage. The gear ratio determines how quickly the wheels move and transfers engine power to them through a system of gears.
Make sure you check the transmission oil regularly, especially if you notice delayed shifting, odd noises, or slipping gears, these could be signs of low or worn-out fluid.
We Recommend: Divyol HY Trans G SAE 10W and 30
Differential Fluid
The differential casing lets gears divide the engine’s turning power between the wheels. This helps them turn at various rates, especially when steering and cornering. Differential fluid protects these gears and bearings and reduces debris build-up. It also helps dissipate excess heat. It is typically thinner and more heat-resistant than transmission fluid.
Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid allows simple and smooth turning of your car by linking the steering wheel and front wheels. It reduces corrosion and wear by lubricating the moving components of the steering system—pistons, valves, hoses—which also dissipate heat. Especially at lower speeds, steering becomes a significantly more difficult task without enough power steering fluid.
Engine Coolant
To control engine temperature, a coolant comes into the picture. This mixture of water and antifreeze absorbs excess heat as it circulates through the engine and then releases it through the radiator. It guards the radiator against rust and corrosion. Additionally, it prevents vital fluids from freezing or becoming too thick in cold conditions.
We Recommend: Divyol Arctic
Solid Greases for Chassis Joints and Wheel Bearings
As chassis joints and wheel bearings of an automobile experience high degrees of friction, solid greases offer longer-lasting protection than oil. Frequent greasing of chassis parts, including ball joints and tie rods, ensures easy handling and extends the lifetime of your car.
Now that you understand the types of lubricants used in a car, let’s learn how to read the car owner’s manual to get the proper lubrication tips.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reading Your Car’s Maintenance Manual for Lubrication Tips
Your car owner’s manual has all the necessary information you need. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Start with the Table of Contents or Index
Look for sections like:
- “Maintenance Schedule”
- “Lubrication”
- “Engine Oil”
- “Fluids and Capacities”
- “Chassis or Suspension Maintenance”
These are usually clearly labelled and easy to find.
1) Find the Recommended Lubricants Section
Most manuals have a dedicated chart or section that lists:
- Engine oil type & viscosity (e.g., 5W-30)
- Transmission oil type (manual or automatic)
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Grease types (for joints and suspension)
- Coolant type (if it has lubricating additives)
This section often shows temperature-based recommendations (like different oils for cold vs. hot climates).
2) Check the Maintenance Schedule
This will tell you:
- When to change oil and filters
- When to lubricate suspension parts or hinges
- How often should you inspect fluid levels and condition
It’s usually in miles/kilometres and/or months.
3) Read Any Footnotes or Special Recommendations
Some vehicles have specific requirements:
- Synthetic oil only
- Special fluid types for CVTS or DSG transmissions
- Sealed systems (like some modern transmissions that don’t need regular fluid changes)
These notes are easy to miss but very important.
4) Look for Diagrams
Some manuals include visual guides showing:
- Where to apply grease (like door hinges or suspension points)
- Dipstick locations
- Drain and fill plug locations
These are super helpful if you’re doing DIY maintenance.
Conclusion
The car owner’s manual clearly tells you the kinds of lubricants to use, how often to top-up or change them, and even where to apply them. Wondering how to get car service manual? Normally the service manual is provided to the owner when the brand new car or motorcycle is delivered to the owner for the first time, however, if you have lost it, You can still purchase it from auto parts stores, online retailers, or directly from the manufacturer’s dealership. You can also find free manuals online.
Following the advice of the manual, you’re not just extending the life of your car—you’re improving performance, safety, and long-term reliability. Therefore, make sure your vehicle owner’s manual is within reach the next time you open the hood; it is your best do-it-yourself friend.