Your vehicle is made up of many components, but fluids flowing through the engine transmission, brakes, steering rack, and more keep everything going. These fluids are easy to forget as you never see them, but our team encourages you to reach out for help with fluid changes before the problem gets worse. If you live in Phoenix, Surprise, Tempe, Glendale, or Scottsdale, AZ, we can handle a quick fluid change at any time.
At Thunderbird Automotive Specialists, locally-owned in Phoenix, AZ for nearly 50 years, our ASE-certified technicians provide complete fluid change and flush services to keep your car or light truck performing at its best. From engine oil and transmission fluid to brake, coolant, and power steering systems, our expert team ensures every vital system runs clean and efficiently.
What do car fluids do to keep your vehicle running?
Your car fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle’s systems. They reduce friction, transfer pressure, and prevent overheating or corrosion inside your engine and other vital components. Without clean, properly balanced fluids, performance and safety both suffer.
Engine oil
Engine oil lubricates pistons, reduces friction, and protects against dirty oil buildup. Regular oil changes or an engine oil flush help your engine operate at peak efficiency.
Transmission fluid
Transmission fluid cools and lubricates your transmission’s internal parts. A routine transmission fluid change or transmission flush prevents slipping and protects smooth shifting for most cars and light trucks.
Brake fluid
Brake fluid powers your braking system through hydraulics. If moisture or contaminants enter the system, your brake pedal can feel soft or unresponsive. Regular fluid flushes restore braking performance and reliability.
Coolant and antifreeze
Coolant (or antifreeze) protects your engine from overheating and internal corrosion. A coolant flush removes dirty or old fluid, keeping the system clean and efficient year-round.
Power steering fluid
Your power steering system depends on clean power steering fluid for smooth, easy handling. When old fluid thickens or breaks down, steering can become noisy or stiff—making a fluid change or flush essential.
Transfer case and differential fluid
In trucks and AWD vehicles, transfer case and differential fluids prevent wear and extend the life of your drivetrain. These fluids should be replaced periodically to protect against leaks or internal damage.
When should car fluids be changed?
Fluid change intervals depend on your manufacturer’s recommendations and driving conditions. Our Phoenix auto repair shop follows all factory schedules to protect your vehicle’s performance and efficiency.
WATCH FOR THESE SIGNS YOUR CAR NEEDS A FLUID CHANGE OR FLUSH:
- The engine is knocking
- Your gas mileage drops unexpectedly
- Poor brake performance
- The steering wheel is difficult to turn
- You notice a burning smell
- The engine overheats
- Your oil pressure drops
- The check engine light comes on
- You get a system warning on the dashboard
Have you noticed any of these warnings? If so, call us at (602) 536-4607 to schedule car maintenance today.
Which car fluids should be filled or flushed?
Without the many different fluids moving through your vehicle, you’re not going to get very far. Thankfully, you can stop by Thunderbird Auto for routine maintenance and fluid changes.
We routinely handle a comprehensive list of fluid changes, including:
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant and antifreeze
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield wiper fluid
Without routine fluid changes and additions, the consequences could be disastrous. Even going without windshield wiper fluid could prove dangerous. Reach out to our team at Thunderbird Auto before your fluid issues cause serious damage or hazardous driving conditions.
Why Phoenix, AZ drivers trust Thunderbird Automotive Specialists
Family-owned and operated since 1976 and proudly serving Phoenix, AZ
ASE-certified mechanics experienced in all makes and models
3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty on repairs and car maintenance services
Clean, comfortable waiting area with Wi-Fi and refreshments
Conveniences like shuttle rides and 24/7 key drop box for customers on the go
Auto maintenance specials to save you money
Specialists in auto repair, fluid changes, and light truck maintenance
Our team is equipped to perform any applicable fluid flush or replacement with care, using clean, high-quality fluids to protect and prolong the life of your car’s most vital systems.
How often should fluids be flushed or replaced?
For most cars, fluids should be replaced every 30,000–60,000 miles, depending on your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines. Regular fluid flushes help remove particles and contaminants, preventing corrosion and extending the life of your engine, transmission, brakes, and power steering system.
Our ASE-certified technicians will inspect each system and recommend the right car maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently.
Schedule a Fluid Change in Phoenix, AZ
Ready for a fluid change or flush? Call (602) 536-4607 or schedule your appointment online with Thunderbird Automotive Specialists in Phoenix, AZ. Our team provides precise engine oil, transmission, brake, and coolant flush services designed to restore performance and keep your vehicle protected mile after mile.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a transmission fluid flush and a transmission fluid change?
A transmission fluid change (or exchange) replaces most of the old fluid by draining and refilling the system, while a transmission flush uses a machine to completely remove old fluid and contaminants from the entire transmission system, ensuring cleaner operation and better long-term protection.
What happens if I skip a coolant flush?
Skipping a coolant flush can lead to corrosion, overheating, or buildup of contaminants inside your engine cooling system.
Do you service any vehicle make or model?
Yes — our shop covers services both domestic and European/Asian import vehicles. Whichever make or model you have, we can address its needs.
What are the signs I need a brake fluid flush?
Soft or spongy pedals, longer stopping distances, or dirty brake fluid are clear signs it’s time for a fluid flush.
