Signs You Are Due for a Brake Fluid Change

Brake fluid is an important part of your car's braking system because it moves force from the brake pedal to the brake pads. With this, your car can break more smoothly and effectively. The brake fluid is something that your car brakes need to work optimally. At some point, brake fluid may soak up water and other impurities. This can make the brakes work less well or even stop working altogether. To keep your brakes working at their best and keep yourself safe while moving, you need to change the brake fluid at the right times. This upkeep needs to be done regularly, or else it could cause longer stopping distances, brakes that don't work as well, and repairs that could be very expensive. Regularly changing the brake fluid is a good way to proactively keep your brakes in great shape.

Important Indicators To Know When To Change Your Brake Fluid:

Your vehicle may give you many signs urging you to conduct brake fluid maintenance. Let’s look at the following points, which indicate when to change the brake fluid:

• Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: When you drive your vehicle and you think the brake pedal feels soft or squishy when you apply pressure, it’s a sign the brake fluid is low. This occurs when air or moisture enters the fluid, decreasing its efficiency.
• Reduced Braking Efficiency: If you notice that there is a delay in the car stopping when you apply brakes, it means it’s time to change your brake fluid. Old or contaminated brake fluid won’t be able to transmit force as effectively. It may be dangerous to manoeuvre your car if it takes longer for the car to stop or slow down.
• ABS Warning Light: Check if the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) warning light on your dashboard is on. If so, it is a clear indication that your brake fluid is less or contaminated. This is dangerous as it makes the braking system less effective.
• Dark or Dirty Brake Fluid: Another key indicator that you need to change brake fluid is to check its colour. Generally, it should be clear or just a little yellow. If it looks dark, cloudy, or dirty, it’s highly recommended that you change the brake fluid. Because this can cause rust in your brake system, making it less effective.
• Unusual noises or burning smell: If you hear squealing sounds or smell something burning when you stop, this is a red flag. It could mean that your brake fluid is old and no longer lubricates properly, leading to too much pressure and heat that can harm your brake parts.

Reasons to Change Brake Fluid

Brake fluid plays a crucial role in the braking system of your vehicle, but it can degrade over time. Regularly replacing brake fluid is essential to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your car’s braking system. Here are the primary reasons why brake fluid needs to be changed:

1. Water Absorption
   Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the environment. This moisture can create air bubbles in the fluid, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to brake failure.
2. Debris Accumulation
   Over time, contaminants such as rust particles, rubber fragments, and dirt can build up in the brake fluid. This contamination reduces the fluid’s ability to transfer force efficiently, weakening the braking system.
3. Heat Generation
   The braking system generates significant heat, particularly from components like the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and traction control systems. This heat can degrade the brake fluid, diminishing its performance.
4. Corrosion
   Contaminated brake fluid can cause corrosion to the metal components of the hydraulic braking system, such as the brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder. This corrosion not only impacts performance but also leads to costly repairs.
5. Loose or Damaged Bleeder Valve
   A loose or damaged bleeder valve can result in brake fluid leakage, reducing the overall fluid level and impairing the braking system’s effectiveness.

When to Schedule a Brake Fluid Change?

When it comes to keeping your car's brakes in good shape, timing is everything. Most makers say that you should change your brake fluid every two to three years, or as stated in your owner's manual. This time period makes sure that your brake fluid doesn't get contaminated or wet, which can hurt its performance over time.

Checking and changing the brakes on a regular basis is important for keeping them safe and working well. If you don't change the brake fluid, the brakes may become weak, take longer to stop, or even stop working altogether. Always check your owner's manual for special instructions that are made for your car.

For extra peace of mind, take your car to a professional service shop. Professional mechanics can check the state of your brake fluid, make any changes that are needed, and make sure that your whole braking system is in great shape. Being cautious about maintaining your brake fluid not only keeps you safe on the road but also makes the braking parts of your car last longer.

Conclusion 

Keeping up with your car's brake fluid is important for keeping you safe on the road. Do not let a small problem grow into a big one. If you take your car to a professional service shop, you can stay on top of its maintenance and rest easy knowing that your brakes are in great shape. Your brakes should always work at their best so that every drive is safe. Make an appointment today to have your brake fluid checked so that your car runs smoothly on the road. Enjoy your drive and stay safe!