waterxyro

Hey CL!

It's been about a month since I've purchased my 2012 IS250. As part of the recommended maintenance in the owner's manual, I read that I should check to make sure that the fluid levels are at or above the necessary level.

So the other day I pop the hood and realize that I can't quite see what the levels are with the covers blocking the view (brake fluid, washer fluid, and coolant fluid reservoirs). Only thing I could really access was the engine oil dipstick.

Are there any clever ways to check the fluid levels without taking all the covers off? Apart from the engine cover, I think the adjacent surrounding covers are bounded by a bunch of plastic screws. What's up with the covers anyways? I would think that it deters the driver from performing any do it yourself maintenance.

Well thanks in advance for any advice

smokyis350

iTrader: (21)

I removed all the screws to the engine cover when I bought the car. Too inconvenient.

There is no other way to check the fluids without removing the covers. The car does come with a sensor that will alert you when the fluids are low.

tomiv9

Never heard of checking brake fluid. You should be able to see levels of coolant and washer fluid if u look carefully.

azari

I know this is an older post, but I have the same question as well, specifically in regards to READILY checking coolant level at a glance. The reservoir is tucked in and it’s hard to tell exactly where the coolant level stands. Are there any tricks that you guys use to quickly get an accurate glance?

thanks

2013FSport

iTrader: (2)

If the car is new to you, you really should take the time to inspect it properly. What you gain from taking the extra effort is understanding of how to do it, the advantage of seeing it clearly and if there are leaks and what not.

Grab a pick, a screwdriver, and a flashlight and go inspect.