Brake Fluid Replacement

Brake fluid is important because it helps your brakes work properly. It transfers the force you apply to the brake pedal to the brake calipers, which then squeeze the brake pads against the brake discs. This mechanical action uses friction to stop your car.

Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture and become contaminated with metal particles. This can cause your brakes to become less effective – and in some cases – fail.

It is important to change your brake fluid regularly to prevent this from happening. Most manufacturers recommend changing your brake fluid every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Here are some of the reasons why you need to change brake fluid regularly:

  • Brake fluid absorbs water from the air. This can reduce the boiling point of the fluid, which can cause your brakes to fail.
  • Brake fluid can become contaminated with metal particles from the parts of your braking system. This can cause your brakes to become less effective and even fail.
  • Changing your brake fluid can help prevent corrosion and rust in your braking system.
  • Changing your brake fluid can help improve the performance of your brakes.

If you are not sure when to change your brake fluid, it is best to consult your car’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.

How Does Moisture Get Into The Braking System?

There are a few ways that moisture can get into a braking system:

  • Through the brake hoses: Brake hoses are made of rubber, and rubber is porous. This means that it can absorb moisture from the air. Over time, this moisture can build up inside the hoses and cause them to leak.
  • Through the master cylinder: The master cylinder is the reservoir that holds the brake fluid. If the master cylinder is not properly sealed, moisture can leak into the system through the seals.
  • Through the brake calipers: The brake calipers are the parts of the braking system that squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotors. If the calipers are not properly sealed, moisture can leak into the system through the seals.

Once moisture gets into the braking system, it can cause a number of problems, including:

  • Brake fade: Brake fade is a condition where the brakes become less effective as they heat up. This is caused by the water in the brake fluid boiling.
  • Brake fluid corrosion: Brake fluid corrosion is a condition where the brake fluid breaks down and becomes ineffective. This is caused by the water in the brake fluid reacting with the metal parts of the braking system.
  • Brake line leaks: Brake line leaks are a serious problem that can cause the brakes to fail completely. This is caused by the water in the brake fluid corroding the brake lines.

If you suspect that there is moisture in your braking system, it is important to have it checked by a qualified mechanic.

How to tell if brake fluid is contaminated or needs changing

Here are some ways to tell if brake fluid is contaminated:

  • Change in color: Brake fluid is usually clear or amber in color. If it is a different color, such as brown or black, it may be contaminated.
  • Cloudiness: Brake fluid should be clear. If it is cloudy, it may be contaminated with water or other impurities.
  • Smell: Brake fluid should have a faint, sweet smell. If it smells like fuel or other chemicals, it may be contaminated.
  • Feel: Brake fluid should be smooth and slippery. If it is thick or sticky, it may be contaminated.
  • Boiling point: Brake fluid has a high boiling point. If it boils at a lower temperature, it may be contaminated.
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