Caring for a used car can be tough. You've got to pay attention to a bunch of different parts and numbers, many of which you might not even understand. It's never too late to learn, however, and just a little bit of knowledge could make a big difference in how you maintain a vehicle. Being aware of the various fluids in your car, for example, can give you the knowledge you need to maintain them properly. 

"Less maintenance improves the cost of vehicle ownership, but fewer visits to the repair facility means the technician will have fewer opportunities to check your vehicle for signs of wear," said John Nielsen, AAA's managing director of automotive engineering and repair. "It's important for motorists to conduct monthly safety inspections to identify issues before they escalate."

Here are three fluids in your vehicle that need to be maintained regularly. 

1. Brake fluid
It's easy to overlook brake fluid: Because it's part of an individual closed system in your car, there's no need to constantly check on it. However, ignoring it completely is dangerous. Find a happy medium by examining it when you have an oil change, just to lump your maintenance together for ease. It only needs to be completely flushed and cleaned out about every two years. 

2. Oil
Almost every driver has at least some knowledge of oil changes. This update is essential for those who want their engine to run smoothly, but today's motorists may not know when to check the oil or have it replaced. Conventional wisdom says to get an oil change every six months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first, but in reality the need varies by make and model. Check your owner's manual for information that's specific to your car. 

3. Power steering fluid
Much like brake fluid, the power steering fluid doesn't need to be constantly monitored. If the level gets low, you'll likely hear some kind of creaking or feel resistance when using the wheel. To avoid this, check the fluid about once a month or so, but don't worry about replacing it until 50,000 miles pass, Lifehacker recommended. If you're unsure, check the owner's manual for more information. 

If you think your car needs to be examined and maintained by a pro, head to the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction. This garage caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have.