One critical component of your automobile may go unnoticed. Unfortunately, many people are only aware of its existence once it is too late!
This is your vehicle’s hydraulic braking system. Like every other component of your car, the fluid in your hydraulic brakes requires regular inspection and repair. Unfortunately, many individuals wonder how often they should check their brake fluid.
Checking and maintaining your hydraulic brakes can guarantee that your vehicle operates and brakes safely. However, a brake system in need of a brake fluid replacement might lead to a failing brake system and increase your chances of being involved in an accident.
Here’s all you need to know about checking and replacing your car’s brake fluid!
What You Need to Know About Brake Fluid
Your vehicle’s brakes are hydraulic, which means they work with a liquid called brake fluid. Hydraulic fluid works by converting a force, such as pressing the brake pedal, into pressure. The brake fluid acts as a medium for the pressure required to engage a vehicle’s front and back brakes.
Liquids, unlike air and some solids, cannot be compressed. Because it cannot condense, it is an excellent choice for brakes.
Brake fluid can be found in practically every motor vehicle, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and ATVs. In addition, because of their economy and improved safety, hydraulic brakes are being used on pedal bicycles.
Brake failure in any vehicle can be caused by low or filthy brake fluid. Brake fluid is engineered to last a long period but not indefinitely. Therefore, you will need to change your brake fluid at some point.
Signs You Need to Change Your Brake Fluid
A complete braking failure indicates that you must change your brake fluid. Fortunately, there are several less dangerous indicators that your car requires new brake fluid. If you see any of these symptoms, you should get your brakes checked by a service technician.
Issues With Your Pedals
Your brake pedal may become more difficult to push when the brake fluid ages or leaks. This is an indication that your brake lines require more fluid. When the brake pedal becomes particularly soft, it is time to change the brake fluid.
Ignoring either of these warning indications may result in brake failure or make stopping extremely difficult.
The Illuminated ABS Light
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System in your vehicle. When it glows, it means something is wrong with your braking system.
The most typical explanation for this light is that you need to change or top off your braking fluid. But, of course, there are additional causes for your brake light to illuminate. Always have a professional inspect your brakes to ensure there isn’t a more serious problem lurking beneath the surface.
Your Brake Pads Aren’t Working Well
The performance of your brake pads will degrade when your brake fluid ages or becomes dirty. In addition, your brakes may be screeching, grinding, or making other strange noises. Another telling symptom is that your brakes take longer to come to a complete halt.
A Burning Smell
Overheated brakes can emit a pungent chemical odor reminiscent of burnt rubber or metal. If you discover this odor in your vehicle, pull over immediately and let your brakes to cool before damaging your wheel or braking system.
How to Check Your Brake Fluid
First, you should check your brake fluid. The quality and level of your brake fluid can indicate other potential car problems.
You’ll need to unlatch and open your vehicle’s hood to check your brake fluid. This is because the brake fluid in most automobiles is stored in a translucent reservoir that allows you to see the liquid level without opening the container. This reservoir is usually located near the back of the engine compartment, just ahead of the brake pedal.
Brake fluid is typically light and transparent in color. If it isn’t clear or transparent, your brake fluid is unclean and has to be changed.
“Full line” should be written on the reservoir’s label. If the brake fluid falls below that level, you must replace it or top it off. Likewise, low brake fluid can signal that your brake pads are worn down and require replacement.
You should only open this bottle if you intend to add or change your brake fluid. By exposing the reservoir to air, moisture enters the hydraulic system. This can have an effect on your braking performance or compel you to change your brake fluid sooner.
Have A Professional Change Your Brake Fluid
You can undertake several simple do-it-yourself car maintenance tasks on your own. Unfortunately, this leads some people to imagine that changing brake fluid must be just as simple.
If your vehicle needs new brake fluid, you should have it changed by a professional. Brake fluid is a complex and potentially hazardous material. Due to the flammable and poisonous qualities of brake fluid, those who operate with it require the right PPE equipment and training.
Brake fluid comes in a range of ratings and standards depending on the sort of vehicle you drive. Unfortunately, these fluids cannot mix, and the old brake fluid must be emptied entirely before introducing the new liquid.
A service specialist will be trained and knowledgeable about how to change the brake fluid in your car safely and efficiently.
How Often Do I Need to Change My Brake Fluid?
The solution is conditional. There is no defined amount of miles or years in which you must change your brake fluid like there is with oil changes. Instead, the requirement to change your brake fluid varies depending on your vehicle, driving circumstances, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A good rule is to have your mechanic inspect your brakes and brake fluid at every oil change. They will provide the most accurate information on how your brakes operate and whether they require new fluid. Most drivers discover that they need to change their brake fluid every four to five years.
