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The Role of Brake Fluid: Why It’s Crucial for Safe Stopping

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Imagine a car without brakes. Pretty scary picture, right?

Especially here in Colorado, where you might head up into the mountains from time to time. You’re flying down the road back home after a day of skiing and – no brakes! Scary!

But it doesn’t even have to be a giant hill that creates a bad picture in your mind. Slowing down for a stoplight can be a harrowing experience without brakes. 

Brake fluid is an important part of the braking process. What does it do? And why should you care?

What is brake fluid? 

You know that satisfying feeling when you press your foot on the brake pedal, and your car gracefully comes to a stop? Well, that magic is primarily thanks to a lesser-known hero called brake fluid. 

The Role of Brake Fluid: Why It's Crucial for Safe Stopping

Brake fluid is behind this most important safety mechanism. It’s a specially formulated hydraulic fluid that plays a critical role in ensuring your brakes work seamlessly. 

When you hit the brakes, this fluid transmits the force from your foot on the pedal to the brake components at each wheel, enabling your car to stop efficiently and safely. It turns your brake pedal tap into a smooth and reliable stop. One you can’t go without. 

Brake fluid must be the correct viscosity

Imagine this: you’re trying to squeeze ketchup out of a bottle. If it’s too thick, it won’t flow smoothly, and if it’s too thin, it might squirt out uncontrollably. Brake fluid follows a similar principle. 

Viscosity might sound like a complex term from a science class, but in layman’s terms, it simply refers to the thickness or consistency of the fluid. If it’s not the correct viscosity, it won’t transmit the force effectively, compromising your ability to stop your car when needed. 

When it comes to brake fluid, getting the viscosity right is crucial for your braking system to function correctly. It ensures a smooth and controlled stop every time you hit the brakes. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in your overall driving safety.

Brake fluid should resist rust and corrosion

Brake fluid also provides another vital trait – its ability to resist rust and corrosion. Your car’s braking system isn’t just about friction between pads and rotors; it’s also about the smooth operation of various metal components. Imagine the intricate dance between pistons, cylinders, and brake lines every time you step on the pedal.

Brake fluid has anti-rust and anti-corrosion properties to act like a shield, protecting these metal components from the relentless wear and tear of time and the elements. Moisture can find its way into the braking system, and if left unchecked, it can lead to rust, corrosion, and a host of problems. 

A brake system compromised by rust isn’t just inefficient; it’s a safety hazard waiting to happen. Regular checks and maintenance ensure that your brake fluid remains a formidable defender, keeping your braking system in top-notch condition and ensuring your safety on the road. It’s like giving your car’s braking components a suit of armor against the forces that seek to corrode its efficiency.

How does brake fluid work?

Applying pressure to the brake pedal signals a series of actions that set the braking system into motion. The brake fluid, being incompressible, plays a pivotal role in transmitting this pressure. Picture it as a messenger, swiftly carrying the command from your foot to the brake components at each wheel.

As the brake fluid travels through the brake lines, it activates a piston within the brake caliper. This piston then presses against the brake pads, creating friction against the brake rotor. It’s this friction that slows down your wheels and brings your car to a stop. The key here is that brake fluid facilitates this entire process by transferring force effectively and consistently.

In essence, every time you bring your car to a stop, it’s like a choreographed dance between your foot, the brake pedal, and the fluid – a dance where precision is everything. Ensuring that your brake fluid is in good condition is not just about maintaining your car; it’s about preserving the harmony of this intricate ballet and, most importantly, ensuring a safe and reliable stop every time you hit the brakes.

Why it’s crucial to change your brake fluid

With time and continuous use, brake fluid faces wear and tear. The smooth, clear fluid you started with can become contaminated with moisture, air, and particles from the braking system. This contamination affects its ability to transmit pressure effectively, diminishing the overall performance of your brakes.

Imagine driving with tires that have seen better days – it’s not going to be as smooth or as safe. The same goes for your brake fluid. If it’s not regularly changed, it can lead to decreased brake efficiency, increased stopping distances, and even potential damage to critical components.

Changing your brake fluid restores its ability to perform at its best. It removes the accumulated contaminants, ensuring the fluid remains clean and efficient in transmitting the force from your foot to the braking system. 

It’s a small investment that pays off in the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Signs brake fluid may be failing

Occasionally, your car might drop hints that it’s time for a fluid refresh.

Pay attention to the color of your brake fluid. Fresh brake fluid is usually a clear or slightly yellowish color. If you notice it turning darker, resembling used motor oil, it’s a sign that it has absorbed contaminants and is losing its effectiveness. 

Another sign to watch for is a soft or spongy brake pedal. When brake fluid becomes contaminated, it can introduce air bubbles into the system, leading to a loss of pedal firmness. If you find yourself having to press the pedal further than usual or experiencing a mushy feel, it’s time to consider a brake fluid change.

Listen for any unusual sounds during braking. If you start hearing squealing, grinding, or other odd noises, it could indicate that your brake fluid isn’t doing its job effectively. 

Keep an eye on your braking performance. If you notice a decrease in stopping power or an increase in stopping distances, it’s a clear sign that your brake fluid might be due for a change.

Your car communicates with you in subtle ways, and understanding these signs can help you address issues before they become significant problems. So, if your car sends out distress signals, consider it an invitation to give your braking system the care and attention it deserves. 

How can we help you? 

Brake Fluid Low? This Is How You Know

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What happens when you push down on the brake pedal?

Your car slows and eventually comes to a stop.

Touch it lightly, and it slows just a bit. Stomp on it, and you can stop in mere seconds. According to the National Association Of City Transportation Officials, the average vehicle going 60 mph will come to a resting point in 4.4 seconds. You’ll feel that motion if you stop at that rate, but it can be done.

However, the only way that can happen is if your braking system is working the way it should.

How the brake system works

Brakes are actually pretty straightforward in the way they operate. We’ve written about it here and here. But for the sake of this article, we’ll condense it into one paragraph format.

When you press down on the brake pedal, it pushes an internal lever that increases the pushing force. This lever pushes a piston into a cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid, also known as brake fluid. The fluid condenses and squeezes out through the end, down a pipe until it reaches another cylinder located at the wheel. Here, it pushes another piston with increased force. It connects with the brake pad and pushes it towards the brake disc. As the brake pad touches the brake disc, friction between the two heats, causing the outer wheel and tire to slow and eventually stop.Brake Fluid Low? This Is How You Know

This basic principle happens four times over, for every line to every wheel on your car.

What makes it all possible is the brake fluid. It’s what increases the pressure to the point of making the mechanics of the braking system work.

It’s time to check your brake fluid levels

You’re already in the habit of checking your motor oil on a regular basis. Low brake fluid is equally important. Yet keep in mind that brake fluid doesn’t need to be changed out as frequently as motor oil, nor is it as vulnerable as the oil used to keep your engine running clean.

However, brake fluid is a vital fluid needed to keep your car running smoothly. It can be the difference of being able to stop your car whenever you desire, or not.

Like your motor oil, checking your brake fluid should be a part of your regular maintenance plan. Especially if you notice your brakes not behaving as they should. Do your brakes feel spongy when you press down on the brake pedal? It’s time to check your brakes. Do you hear a squeal as you tap on the brakes? It’s definitely time for a check up.

Like motor oil, brake fluid can have a variety of things wrong with it. If it’s low, there might be a leak somewhere in the system. If it’s contaminated, it means dirt and grime has found a way inside.

Brake fluid impacts every part of the braking system, the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines. And if the brake fluid doesn’t have the proper makeup, chances are it’s impacting any or all of these parts in various ways. A thorough inspection is needed to ensure your brakes are working the way they should.

Finding the brake fluid reservoir

Keep in mind that filling your brake fluid reservoir isn’t like topping up your motor oil. You can’t run to your local auto parts store and buy just any brake fluid sitting on the shelf. It takes knowledge to ensure you’re purchasing the right product, and skill to fully clean the system as you change it out. Still, having a general understanding can make you a more well informed driver and car owner.

The brake fluid reservoir is typically a plastic canister that is mounted near the rear of the engine compartment. It’s usually near the driver’s side brake booster. If you can’t find it, consult your owner’s manual or do a search online for your make and model. It will point you in the right direction.

Most newer vehicles use a translucent plastic with a fill line, so you can immediately tell if the brake fluid is low. Older vehicles might have a metal reservoir, with a clamp securing the top into place. Different vehicles have different rules about opening up the lid. Follow guidelines exactly or risk contaminating the brake fluid. Exposure to moist air can contaminate the fluid in just a few minutes, so it’s important to know what you’re doing before you open it up.

Brake fluid looks okay if …

The first check is to ensure you have enough brake fluid in the system. Does the brake fluid levels reach the fill line?

If it doesn’t, that can be a warning sign your brake pads are wearing thin. This is because as brake pads wear down, they take more action to work. The piston will need to move farther into the system, requiring more fluid to complete the process.

If the fluid level looks okay, the second step is to inspect the fluid itself. Brake fluid is normally a clear or light gold color. If it turns brown or black, the brake fluid is contaminated and it needs to be replaced. As dirt enters the system, it slowly changes the coloring, giving the fluid its darker appearance. It allows dirt and other contaminants into the braking system, which in turn can damage other parts.

Adding brake fluid

As a general rule, you should have your brake fluid replaced about every two years. Of course, this depends on a variety of things, including your drive style, the make and model of your car. Check your owner’s manual for recommended guidelines. One of our experienced mechanics can also provide you with more information.

Different vehicles require different brake fluid. You can’t mix and match. If you use an incorrect formula, or overfill your brake fluid reservoir, you risk having your brakes working incorrectly. Most systems use either DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid. Consult your owner’s manual, or find the information located on the brake fluid reservoir cap.

Brake fluid is toxic and highly corrosive, so proper protection is needed anytime you deal with brake fluid.

Once brake fluid is changed, it also requires testing and bleeding the brakes.

Don’t have the tools or the knowledge to test your brakes yourself? Let one of our mechanics help. We’ll ensure your brakes are safe and well cared for, and have you back on the road in no time.

Schedule your maintenance visit today.

Yes, Your Brake Fluid Will Wear Down

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Brake fluid is also known as hydraulic fluid. It is responsible for moving the different components of your car’s braking system.

Brake fluid operates under high temperatures and high pressure. Without brake fluid, your car wouldn’t slow down or come to a stop when you press down on the brake pedal.

What does brake fluid do?

Brake fluid is a lubricant and anti-corrosion fluid that ensures your brake system works optimally all the time. It’s non-compressible, which means it’s always in the brake line, ready to work and deliver force every time you push on the brake pedal. The hydraulic brake system works like this:

  • The brake pedal is pressed
  • The pedal pushes down a piston inside the brake caliper
  • This process increases pressure inside the brake lines, pushing brake fluid throughout the system
  • Pressure cause brake rotors to squeeze the brake pads into action
  • Brake pads make contact with the wheels, slowing the vehicle down
  • You stay safe by being able to control your vehicle, all by touching your foot to the brake pedal

That’s a lot of responsibility for one system! And it hopefully shows you just how important brake fluid is. It’s an essential component to ensure your vehicle operates.Yes, Your Brake Fluid Will Wear Down

What are the most common brake fluid problems?

Brake fluid isn’t like motor oil or windshield washer fluid. You don’t drive in and have it changed out on a regular basis. Still, brake fluid can develop problems over time.

The most common has been when moisture seeps into the brake fluid. However, with increased technology comes better construction. If you have an older car – 20 years or older – moisture in brake fluid was a problem. But with today’s components, seals are tighter than ever, which has eliminated most of the moisture intrusion issues.

Brake fluid usually contains up to 5 percent of additives. These are corrosion inhibitors added to prevent corrosion within the brake system. Brake fluid itself won’t corrode. What happens instead is when brake fluid no longer has anti-corrosive qualities, the internal brake hydraulic components may not get what they need. This is when breakdown occurs.

Brake fluid corrosion can occur:

  • With excessive heating or overheating through usage of a car’s brakes
  • By overusing the brake system with heavy loads or weight that exceeds recommendations
  • With excessive stop and go driving, pouncing on the brakes
  • By adding low-quality brake fluid
  • Through temperature extremes

What happens if brake fluid is low?

Different car manufacturers have different requirements when it comes to filling up your brake fluid reservoir. Check with your owner’s manual to determine how frequently to change out your brake fluid.

In theory, it can be a DIY project. But you have to understand how the basic brake system works, and have specific information about how your car works. Pay attention to the brake bleeding procedure; it needs to be performed in the right manner to keep you safe.

Are there different types of brake fluid?

In general, brake fluid isn’t that fancy. But different cars experience different driving conditions, so there are several different kinds of brake fluids to meet all needs.

DOT 3 has a glycol-ether base. It is designed for regular vehicles with average driving patterns, such as commuting.

DOT 4 is similar to DOT 3, only with more additives to increase boiling points. You’ll find DOT 4 increases performance, or move to Super DOT 4 for even better performance. This fluid is often used for racing or performance vehicles that can greatly exceed normal speed limits.

DOT 5 is not compatible with any other brake fluid types. It’s a rust preventer, and unlike other brake fluids, it won’t harm paint if spilled. It’s also costly. Unless your vehicle was specifically designed with DOT 5, this isn’t an option for most cars.

DOT 5.1 is similar to DOT 3 and DOT 4 in composition, but acts more like DOT 5 on the road. It has a lower viscosity, which is necessary for some vehicles.

In technical terms, DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 are similar. In a pinch, you can substitute one for another. But you shouldn’t drive without the proper brake fluid for very long. FLush the entire system and add in fresh, clean brake fluid as recommended by your car’s manufacturer for best results.

DOT 5 cannot be substituted at any time. It could damage your brake system.

What is bleeding the brakes?

If you read anything about your brake system or adding brake fluid to your car, you’ve probably noticed talk about bleeding the brakes.

Bleeding the brakes is the process of pushing new brake fluid through the brake lines and removing the old. As brake fluid wears, it loses additives and has an increase in gas bubbles within the line. By draining the old fluid out, you ensure what’s left is high quality, fresh brake fluid ready to do its job.

This process requires a few tools. You’ll need a wrench to open up the valves located by each brake caliper. You’ll also need a catch container to hold the old brake fluid. You’ll also need a way to operate the brake pedal to push the new brake fluid through the system.

This process takes skill; don’t run the brake reservoir dry or open the valves too far. This can allow more bubbles into the system, which can cause serious safety issues as you drive. A professional will ensure the job is done right the first time.

What about a brake fluid flush?

The other term you’re likely to hear is brake fluid flush. The name makes it sound like the system is being flushed with cleaner to remove old brake fluid before new is installed. In reality, a brake fluid flush and bleeding the brakes are identical. It’s when new brake fluid is forced into the system, pushing the old fluid and all of its potential issues away. That’s it.

How long has it been since your brake fluid was changed? 

Now that you know the importance of brake fluid to your car’s brake system, the next question is: when was the last time you had your brake fluid changed?

Your brakes are one of the most important systems to keep you safe as you drive each day. If you’ve noticed a change in the way your brakes work, it’s time to have them checked. We can help. Make an appointment, and one of our professional mechanics will evaluate your systems and make suggestions for the best way to proceed. We’ll get you back on the road in no time.

How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Serviced?

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To keep your car running, it’s necessary to pull into the gas station every few hundred miles for a fill-up. You don’t think about it. You just do it.

Unfortunately, other car maintenance routines aren’t as automatic. You may fill up your windshield washer fluid when it’s empty because your vision becomes impaired through the dirt on the windshield. You may pull in for an oil change because the sticker on your window gives you a date and mileage number to shoot for.

But what about brake fluid?

What does brake fluid does for your car?

Brake fluid is also known as hydraulic fluid. Brake fluid allows the various components of your car’s brake system to move and operate efficiently. Without brake fluid, your vehicle wouldn’t come to a stop when you pushed down on the brake pedal.How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Serviced?

Brake fluid is designed to operate under high temperature and high pressure. It’s a non-compressible fluid that is housed within the brake lines, and is delivered to the various braking components when you press down on the pedals. It’s brake fluid that helps apply pressure to all four wheels, bringing your car to a stop. It works like this:

  • When you want to stop or slow down, you press down on the brake pedal.
  • The pedal starts the braking process by compressing a piston that resides in each brake caliper.
  • This process increases the pressure within the brake line, sending brake fluid where it needs to go throughout the brake system.
  • Brake fluid causes the rotors to connect with the brake pads, which in turn makes contact with the wheels. This friction slows the rotation of the wheel, eventually bringing it to a stop.

Without brake fluid, your brake system wouldn’t work. If brake fluid runs low, is contaminated with dirt or grime, or doesn’t flow properly in any way, your braking system is compromised.

That would make your brake fluid pretty important, right? Yet it’s one of the most forgotten fluids in your vehicle.

What happens to brake fluid as it ages?

Brake fluid doesn’t exist in a perfectly sterile world. Over time, it absorbs moisture, which has the potential to lower the boiling point and raise the freezing point. Dirt infiltrates the fluid, increasing the possibility of corrosion throughout the braking system components.

This is a slower process than the motor oil you change out of your vehicle several times per year. But like any car fluid, your brake fluid has to be at optimal performance level for it to do its job correctly. Because brake fluid is an integral part of your car’s safety, check your owner’s manual to determine the recommended brake fluid changing schedule. If you think you might have a problem with your brake fluid, have one of our mechanics check it out to ensure your safety.

How do you check brake fluid?

When you open up the hood on your car, you’ll find brake fluid is usually stored in a translucent plastic container. You should be able to see the levels of brake fluid without removing the cap. This is different than other fluids where you can remove the cap and check levels with a dipstick, like your motor oil, or remove the cap for easy fill like with your windshield washer fluid.

With your brake fluid, you don’t want to open up the cap unless you plan on replacing the fluid. Opening it up invites moisture to settle inside, and as we already discussed, moisture isn’t something you want in the hydraulic system.

New brake fluid will be clear to a slightly-amber color when you first put it in. If you find your brake fluid has signs of rust or is a darker, dirtier color, it’s time for it to be serviced.

Are there different types of brake fluid?

Because brake function is so important, it stands to reason that there are different types of brake fluid for different levels of performance. Yet you don’t head down to your local auto parts store and find brake fluid brands and types on the shelf in the same manner as motor oil.

The two main types of brake fluid are either a glycol-based or silicon-based.

Glycol-based brake fluids are normally used in vehicles that use anti-lock brakes (ABS). Silicon-based brake fluids work only in cars that don’t have ABS braking system. The two are not interchangeable. You can’t add in silicon-based brake fluid after glycol-based brake fluid has been in the system. Small amounts will always remain, no matter how much you flush the system.

The Department of Transportation has labeled brake fluids as DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5. DOT3 and DOT4 are glycol-based, while DOT5 is silicon-based. DOT3 and DOT4 absorb water. DOT5 doesn’t.

The number indicates the boiling point of the fluid. The higher the number, the better quality and higher chance of withstanding higher temperatures. But that doesn’t mean every vehicle operates better with a higher brake fluid. Check your owner’s manual for details on which brake fluid is best for your car.

It’s also important to note that glycol-based brake fluids eat paint, so it’s important to let a trained mechanic handle brake fluid.

Can I change my car’s brake fluid myself?

By reading this article, you’ve probably determined that brake fluid is more difficult to work with compared to other fluids in your vehicle. It’s not a typical do-it-yourself project. Brake fluid should only be handled by someone with professional training.

Brake fluid is both more complicated and more dangerous to work with than other parts of your car. It’s not as simple as picking up a gallon at your favorite big box store and adding it to the reservoir.

There are two types of brake fluid, and they don’t mix. If you do, you risk damaging your vehicle. That can be an expensive endeavor. It’s important to choose the right fluid based on manufacturers’ guidelines, and placing it into your vehicle in a proper manner.

You’ll also find brake fluid hard to dispose of. It’s both toxic and combustible, so you don’t want to leave it sitting around in your garage. It has specific guidelines for disposal, one that your mechanic has access to and uses every day.

A well-trained mechanic knows the ins and outs of how to handle every aspect of your braking system, including brake fluid maintenance and removal.

To ensure the reliability of your car, and the safety of you and your family, let one of our trained mechanics help you with all of your vehicle’s needs.

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