How to Check Brake Fluid

How to Check Your Brake Fluid

Every driver knows that oil changes are an essential part of vehicle maintenance, but did you know that other types of fluid in your vehicle need attention? Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in a vehicle, yet it’s often overlooked. Your brake system must have brake fluid to bring your car to a stop, so having the proper amount of brake fluid is crucial. Learning how to check your brake fluid will help you keep your brake system in good condition. 

Why Is Brake Fluid Necessary?

Your car’s brake system needs brake fluid to give your vehicle stopping power. Brake fluid travels through the brake system, providing lubrication and preventing corrosion. It also contributes to your brake pedal’s movement and transfers force to the front and rear calipers. As you can see, brake fluid has an important job to do every time you drive. If your brake fluid is running low, old, or contaminated, your brakes won’t be able to do their job effectively. 

How To Inspect Your Brake Fluid

Checking your brake fluid is a rather simple task that can be performed at home. However, since each make and model is different, we suggest following your owner’s manual’s instructions on how to check your brake fluid. The process of checking brake fluid usually goes as follows:

• Lift the hood of your vehicle
• Locate the master cylinder and find the brake fluid reservoir
• Find the “maximum” and “minimum” lines on the brake fluid reservoir
• See where your brake fluid sits against the lines
• If your brake fluid is at or below the minimum line, you’ll know you need new brake fluid
• Before you finish up, inspect the color of your brake fluid. You should get your brake fluid flushed if it’s black, dark brown, or looks like oil.

Remember that if your brakes aren’t working as well as they used to, you should schedule an inspection immediately.

When To Check and Change Your Brake Fluid

Technicians usually recommended performing a brake fluid check every time you change your vehicle’s oil. However, you should always check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines. You’ll also want to keep in mind that different factors, such as your driving habits and environment, can change your maintenance schedule. Damage in your brake system can also affect how often your brake fluid disintegrates. 

Schedule Brake Service at Stanley CDJR of Gilmer

When you take your vehicle into a service department for brake service, a technician will be able to inspect the system and its fluid. They can detect if there’s a problem with the system or simply keep you informed about your brake fluid’s condition. Drivers near Longview and Tyler can schedule brake fluid checks and brake service at Stanley Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of Gilmer in Gilmer, TX. Our expert technicians will help you protect your brake system by providing routine brake fluid checks.