You may not think of it, but one aspect of vehicle safety that is overlooked is brake fluid; without this fluid, the braking system will not function properly and the vehicle will be at risk for brake failure. Brake fluid is used in hydraulic systems, and by applying pressure to the brake pedal, brake fluid passes through the brake callipers to clamp onto the brake rotors, which are responsible for stopping the vehicle. Failure to regularly maintain brake fluid can result in your brakes failing to operate properly and posing danger to the driver and other people who share the road with you. When should I change my brake fluid? In general, brake fluid should be changed every two years; however, there are additional items to take into consideration. You now understand that maintaining brake fluid is important; let's now look at the proper time to change the brake fluid. Many drivers rely on a mobile auto repair service to help them stay on top of these essential maintenance tasks, especially when time is limited.

Different Types of Brake Fluid

The brake fluid in a vehicle connects the brake pedal, brake line and brake calliper for effective force transfer. There are many different types of brake fluids available, but the three most commonly used are DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1. Each of these types has different boiling points and compositions. Therefore, the type of brake fluid you choose to use will depend upon the type of vehicle you own. The brake fluids that you use must be compliant with industry standards if you want your brake system to work at its maximum potential and provide adequate safety features. A mobile mechanic sydney can also help you identify the correct brake fluid for your specific vehicle.

Why Is It Necessary to Replace Brake Fluid Timely?

When you regularly replace your brake fluid, it is important to do so because brake fluid is the only fluid that has a high boiling point (which is good) and therefore keeps it from turning into vapour within your brakes. As time goes on, however, the brake fluid becomes contaminated by moisture, which will corrode your components, decrease the boiling point of your brake fluid, and result in a spongy brake pedal and possible failure of the hydraulic brake system. Moisture entering into the brake fluid can also cause damage to the brake lines, master cylinder, and callipers. If the boiling point of your brake fluid falls too low, it will boil and cause your brakes to fade away, ultimately leading to reduced braking power. No driver ever wants to deal with the aftermath of a brake failure.

Common Signs That Indicate the Brake Fluid Should be Replaced

Most experts recommend replacing the brake fluid every two years. In some situations, the brake fluid may need to be changed sooner than the recommended two-year interval. A mobile mechanic sydney can help diagnose brake performance issues quickly, especially when you're unsure about warning signs.

• Keep An Eye Out For Brake Fluid Changes

All vehicle manufacturers will generally provide very specific instructions regarding when to change your brake fluid in the owner’s manual. Following these recommendations is critical because they are customised to your particular vehicle's year, make and model.

• Check The Brake Fluid Reservoir

In addition to checking and maintaining your brake fluid, regularly reviewing the brake fluid reservoir provides an easy method for determining if a brake fluid change is required. If you have seen that the fluid level is low or the fluid appears dark, then you should schedule an appointment to have your brake fluid changed. If getting an appointment to come into a shop isn't an option for you. It's easy enough to have someone come out and check your brakes & fluid levels and change your brake fluid at your location.

• New Brake Maintenance Or Repairs

You should have your brake fluid checked if you have had any recent brake maintenance or repairs completed (for example, if you have installed new brake pads or had any brake system service). It is a great time to verify that your brake fluid's condition is optimal.

• Brake System Replacement Signs

Listen to what your brakes are telling you. If your brake pedal is soft and/or the brakes feel less responsive than normal, it may be time to replace your brake fluid.

Your brake system relies on the quality of the brake fluid to be able to be effective and responsive.

Who Should Change Your Brake Fluid?

Changing brake fluid on your own at home or hiring someone else (likely an auto repair technician) to do so can be a dilemma. While many DIY brake fluid changes can save money, they require a general knowledge of your vehicle's brake system and proper tools. On the other hand, a professional mechanic can perform a brake fluid flush correctly and has more experience than the average DIYer. A mechanic can identify potential issues that could arise in the future, such as corrosion in the brake lines.

Conclusion

Daily or multiple times a week checking and analysing your brake fluid reservoirs and their performance will help inform you when a brake fluid change is needed. You should never risk losing the safety aspects of your car. Regular brake fluid maintenance will help keep your brake system operating correctly, allowing your vehicle to perform safely and responsively.