What Happens To Brake Fluid Over Time?

What Is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is an integral component of your vehicle and is a specific type of hydraulic fluid that assists in helping your brake pedals depress the brake pads to stop your vehicle. Additionally, it is a key lubricant that helps ensure your braking system does not corrode prematurely. 

Does Brake Fluid Need to Be Changed?

With time, dirt and contaminants enter the brake fluid and can begin causing the additives to break down. Once this starts, the brake fluid begins losing effectiveness and can actually lead to your brakes suffering wear and tear earlier than anticipated. In addition to dirt and contaminants, brake fluid also loses effectiveness because moisture droplets from the air can seep through tiny holes in the various components of your vehicle’s braking system and start causing damage. When brake fluid corrosion occurs, the brakes begin losing effectiveness and, without appropriate service, can lead to a catastrophic accident. 

What Are the Warning Signs That Your Brake Fluid Needs to Be Changed?

If you notice that your vehicle’s brake pedal is reaching the floor quicker than usual or without resistance, this is a sign that the brake fluid may need to be changed. Other signs of needing the brake fluid changed include liquid forming below your vehicle, the ABS warning light being emitted, and brake pads that are past their prime. 

What Happens During a Brake Fluid Change?

During a brake fluid change, the old fluid is flushed from the vehicle and replaced with new fluid that is optimized to work in your specific make and model. It is not just older vehicles that need their brake fluid replaced; in modern vehicles brake fluid needs service, too. This service needs to be completed at periodic intervals. While your vehicle is on the lift having the fluid checked, a quality repair facility will also do a visual inspection of the various components of the braking system to ensure that everything else is in top-notch condition. 

At Rivergate Muffler & Auto Repair in Madison, TN, we specialize in all types of vehicles and our highly skilled and trained mechanics are ready to help. For us, no job is too big or small and we deliver quality service at an affordable price. Whether your vehicle needs new brake fluid or a more complex repair, trust the repair facility that many others do in Madison and come visit us today.

Categorised in: Auto Maintenance

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