How to Check Brake Fluid

We’ve all had a wrench thrown in our plans by unexpected service, but when you take time to check important systems, it can save you a lot of hassle on the roads around Stephenville. One of the important systems you should check is your brakes. As one of the most important safety components of your vehicle, it’s crucial that your brakes are working correctly and aren’t too worn down. Below, we’ll walk you through checking your brake fluid and what color brake fluid is, so you can be aware of what’s happening in this vital system. Learn more below, then schedule service at our Bayer Auto Group-area service centers to complete brake maintenance. 

What is the Importance of Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is the essential fluid that lubricates your braking system. The hydraulic fluid helps keep the brake pedal movement smooth and prevents important components from corroding. In most vehicles, Brake fluid is formulated with a glycol-ether based, however, other fluids may have a silicone-based (DOT-5) or mineral oil-based (LHM) formula. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the fluid that is recommended for your vehicle. 

It’s important to regularly change your brake fluid for a number of reasons: 

• Brake fluid attracts moisture and the additional moisture in the system can lead to corrosion on your brakes over time.
• As brake fluid ages, it can become contaminated with small particles that can cause damage to the brake system and other vital components. 
• If your vehicle is equipped with an ABS and traction control system, the heat they generate when activated can shorten the lifespan of your brake fluid.

Regularly checking your brake fluid allows you to avoid situations on Brownwood roads where your brakes fail to stop, causing even more damage. 

How to Check Your Brake Fluid

1. Locate your vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder under the hood. When checking your brake fluid, the vehicle’s owner’s manual should have the exact location. 
2. You should see notches for the “minimum” and “maximum” fill lines on the outside of the reservoir. Check where the fluid lies against these lines. When the level is too low, that’s a sign it’s time for a brake fluid replacement or brake service.
3. Check thecolor of the brake fluid. We’ll cover what color brake fluid is below, but if it is dark brown or oil black color, you’ll need a brake fluid flush.

What Color is Brake Fluid?

When you purchase new brake fluid, it is usually clear with an almost yellowish tint to it. Once the brake fluid has been through your vehicle’s system, it can turn to a dark, oil-like color from the contaminants, like dirt and debris, that have been picked up. If left unattended, this can hinder the performance of your brakes during your normal trips around Abilene. 

Brake Fluid Service Intervals

To maintain your smooth performance, it’s recommended that you check your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year. Your brake fluid can typically last around four to five years, but this lifespan can vary depending on your model, driving habit, and the driving conditions around Comanche. Now that you know how to check brake fluid, read more about changing your engine oil, so you can stay on top of both systems at the same time. 

Schedule Your Brake Service with Bayer Auto Group!

If you have questions about your brake system and what you’ve observed while checking it, the certified technicians at the Bayer Auto Group service centers are here to help! Stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance and read about how to check coolant levels or save on your next service with our available service specials.