How does Blinker Fluid work?

There are many fluids that your vehicle needs to run smoothly. A friend, family member, or acquaintance might have told you you needed blinker fluid. You may be wondering what its benefits are. You might be wondering what blinker fluid is and why you should use it to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.

In this guide, we discuss the history of blinker fluid and show you why it’s not real. The fluids we need are also discussed.

What's Blinker Fluid?

Blinker fluid isn’t a real product and it’s nothing that would ever be used for car maintenance. Instead, blinker fluid is something used to prank people that don’t know about automotive maintenance. Videos have been virally shared showing people searching for the blinker fluid at auto parts shops. 

Telling someone they have to get blinker fluid is a clever prank. It’s a simple prank to play on anyone that doesn’t understand various car fluids. You can even find blink fluid coupons online and bottles of “blinker fluid” to further extend the jokes. You can also find similar jokes regarding tail light fluid or headlight fluid.

In reality, the vehicle's blinkers are part of its electrical system. Putting any fluids in them would create damage, even if it’s a quite funny joke!

Blinker Fluid's History

It’s difficult to figure out where the term “blinker fluid” first came from. The term "blinker fluid" first appeared in Google searches in 2004. This term could be accidental or popular. It’s also possible that the term was already around, but it just took off among the younger generation who was using the internet. 

Sadly, we aren’t able to give credit to the person who came up with the blinker fluid prank, but it is still hilarious to watch. It’s one of the practical jokes that can create a Fool’s Errand. 

One person who understands the basics of car maintenance tells another one who isn’t that blinker fluid is needed. A person goes to the store looking for the right product and ends up spending a lot of time. This person should ask an associate where it is located, as everyone deserves a good time. 

Many years have passed since the internet embraced the joke about blinker fluid. Videos of people searching for the fluid are viral and make for great entertainment. 

You can buy Blinker Fluid at these places

You have two choices if you wish to pull this off. You can send them on a Fool’s Errand and have them searching for the product, leading to confusion, and embarrassment. While that trick is fun and you should have your camera running, there’s also another way to play it.

Tell them that you have bought a fake bottle of blinker fluid. There are many websites where you can buy empty bottles that claim to be blinker fluid. You can find these bottles on Amazon, Etsy and Walmart. After the package arrives you can fill it up with water and gift it.

When you buy blinker fluid online, be sure you read through the reviews and Q&A section. These provide useful information that will make your prank even more fun.

How do turn signals work?

With an understanding that blinkers don’t use any kind of fluids, it’s helpful to know how the turn signals work. Turn signals, which are electrical devices that let you notify pedestrians and drivers when you intend to alter lanes or change direction, are called turn signals. They are an important safety device that prevents accidents. 

The bulbs are brightened when they need to be by turning signals that run on electrical power. The bulb is connected to a circuit that can be controlled by a switch. To illuminate the light, flip the switch and activate the turn signal.

To ensure that more people are paying attention to the turn signal, it uses a blinking light. The blinking light makes other drivers more aware of your intent to avoid an accident. Because the module transmits power pulses to all lights, the rhythmic pattern happens. Also known as a flasher, this module sends power pulses through to the lights.

Turn off the switch to close the circuit. This switch switches off the blinkers and activates them again the next time they are needed. 

Real Car Fluids You Need

1. Mobil Oil

Your car's most essential fluid is engine oil. It helps to lubricate the engine, and keep the internal components working properly. It also functions as an engine oil coolant. If the oil is clean and fresh, it will lower engine temperatures. Motor oil, particularly if it contains detergents, can be used to clean the engine. 

You might have to change your conventional motor oil every 3000-3000 miles. But synthetic motor oils can last 7,500-15,000 miles without needing to be changed.

2. Coolant

Coolant is made up of ethylene glycol, water and other chemicals. Also known as antifreeze, coolant is made from ethylene glycol and water. It absorbs heat from the engine and keeps it running at an ideal temperature.

The coolant should be poured into the radiator reservoir. Coolant flows through the engine as it runs. It then circulates back through the radiator. It keeps the engine cool and prevents it from freezing. Water should not be put directly in the reservoir, as it may freeze with low temperatures. It also doesn’t contain the same thickness as the coolant that is required.

Regular coolant flushes are important to ensure that the system runs smoothly. A coolant flush might be recommended every 30,000 to 3,000 miles, and once to twice a year. 

3. Transmission Fluid

Your car’s transmission fluid lubricates the transmission, just as motor oil works with the engine. The fluid also acts as a hydraulic fluid that supports shifting. You may need to top off the transmission fluid occasionally, so it’s important to keep a close eye on it. 

Check your car owner’s manual to see how often a transmission flush is needed. With some models, it’s as soon as 30,000 miles, while others can go 100,000 miles. 

4. Brake Fluid

Your car’s brake fluid is also a form of hydraulic fluid. The brake pedal exerts pressure, which is then amplified by the hydraulic fluid and sends it to the pads. The high heat in the system can cause brake fluid to evaporate. If the system doesn’t have enough fluid, there could be dangerous consequences. 

The brake fluid should be changed every two years or 30,000 miles. However, it's possible to need additional brake fluid for certain brake repairs. Keep an eye out! 

5. Steering Fluid

Hydraulic power steering fluid also runs the power steering pump. It is found under the hood in a reservoir. The fluid helps you to turn your vehicle by lubricating the steering system and amplifying the pressure. 

It is possible that you will need to replace the power steering fluid after 50,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual to see what’s recommended for your vehicle.

6. Windshield Washer Fluid

Your windshield fluid is vital to keep your auto glass clear. The windshield washer lever sprays fluid out, so that you can clean off dirt and dead insects. 

There’s no reason to flush through the windshield washer fluid. You will need to inspect the reservoir regularly and make sure the container is clean at all times.

Commonly Asked Questions