As the main safety mechanism in your car, a well-functioning braking system is essential, and its main component is brake fluid.
This viscous liquid transfers the energy required to stop your vehicle while maintaining various parts of the braking system.
Without it, your braking system would rust or otherwise corrode. This is why understanding this fluid is essential to maintaining your car and driving safely.
So, we have gathered all of the most important facts about this fluid in this post, including how the quality of the service you receive plays a huge role in its effectiveness.
What Is Brake Fluid?
This fluid is a crucial component of your car’s braking system. Actually, you can find this hydraulic fluid in motorcycles and bicycles, too.
Generally, these fluids are either polyglycerol-ether or mineral-based and will look purple, amber/yellow, pink, or colorless.
In addition, they must maintain a specific viscosity across a wide temperature range to effectively stop even at high temperatures. Their different compositions will affect their performance.
What Does Brake Fluid Do?
This fluid has two primary purposes in your car.
First, it acts as an amplifier of force, allowing your press on the brakes to convert to enough pressure to stop the average 2-ton vehicle. More specifically, this hydraulic fluid converts the energy from pressing on the brakes into pressure throughout the braking mechanism until they reach the brake pads. This is possible because you cannot compress liquids.
Moving on, rust and corrosion prevention is the second purpose of brake fluid. This fluid contains anti-corrosion chemicals and pH balancers. Moreover, most versions of this fluid will absorb water. So, coating the parts of your braking system that are susceptible to rust and corrosion maintains them.
Types of Brake Fluids
In the US, this fluid has a special categorization: DOT. This acronym stands for the Department of Transportation.
Currently, the following fluids are the most used in cars:
- DOT 3: This is a polyglycol ether based fluid that absorbs water and suits modern cars.
- DOT 4: This is also a popular fluid among modern cars. This brake fluid functions in a similar way to the DOT 3 by absorbing water and preventing corrosion.
- DOT 5: This is a popular silicon alternative because it is hydrophobic, does not damage paint, and is more resilient over a wider range of temperatures. However, you cannot use it with an anti-lock braking system since that can make it intake air, which would damage your brake parts.
- DOT 5.1: Like the DOT 5, this version is high-performing and will even withstand temperatures of 500°F according to reports. Yet, it is compatible with DOT 3 and 4.
What Type of Auto Brake Fluid Does Your Car Need?
To find out which fluid you should use, you should refer to either your car’s manual or the cap on the fluid reservoir under the hood of your car.
Broadly, Modern cars that use petroleum as fuel will use DOT 3, 4, 5.1. Meanwhile, in cold regions, you will likely use DOT 5.
In some cases, you may use DOT 3, 4, and 5.1 interchangeably.
Note: Making a mistake between fluids can ruin your braking mechanism.
Buyer Beware: The Risk of Dishonest Brake Fluid Services
While brake fluid exchanges are vital, many drivers are unaware that not all services are performed with proper care or the right equipment. Below are the key reasons to be cautious:
Specialized Tools Are a Must
Carrying out a thorough brake fluid exchange demands appropriate equipment. If a shop relies on basic or outdated methods, there’s a risk they won’t remove all the aged fluid. Any old residue or trapped air could continue to disrupt your braking system.
Stay Vigilant Against Impurities
Fresh fluid quickly loses its value if it’s introduced into a poorly sealed setup or handled with contaminated gear. Mishandling or failing to protect the system from external pollutants can defeat the entire point of the exchange.
Why Complete Flushing Matters
Swapping out only some of the old fluid leaves behind dirt, moisture, and degraded fluid. This shortfall prevents your brakes from performing at their best and reduces their overall lifespan.
The Dangers of Incorrect Service
Mishandled procedures can introduce air pockets or lead to other mishaps, resulting in unresponsive brakes or, in extreme cases, potential system failure. Restoring your brakes after such errors can cost more than a properly done service in the first place.
Questionable Value for Your Money
Ultimately, if the exchange isn’t carried out with professionalism and the right tools, you may end up paying for little to no improvement. A subpar job won’t boost your safety or brake performance, leaving you with the same concerns as before.
Integrity 1st Automotive Offers the Best Automotive Brake Fluid Servicing
Refilling your brake reservoir is essential to ensuring your car stops effectively. With Integrity 1st Automotive, you can leave handling this toxic material to professionals.
We will make sure that this material does not damage your car’s paint, and we will dispose of the used fluid according to Texas state law.
Furthermore, we have training in identifying and repairing damage to your braking system. So, you can rely on Integrity 1st Automotive for the following services:
- Fluid exchanges
- Brake pad and rotor replacement
- Tire replacement and alignment
- Transmission repairs
- Oil changes
Conclusion
As you know now, brake fluid is critical to a safe ride. It allows your car to stop effectively while preventing rust and corrosion in the braking system. However, getting an exchange done improperly can leave you at risk, which is why thorough and honest services are so important.
If you are looking for professional car repair and maintenance services with expert brake fluid care, Integrity 1st Automotive is your trusted partner. Our ASE-certified technicians provide attentive support, top-grade fluids, and the proper tools to keep your brake system performing at its best.
Frequently Asked Question
What happens if brake fluid is low?
If your brake fluid is low, your car may have difficulty braking, and the brake pedals will feel loose. These changes can happen suddenly. Also, the fluid may start to burn and become ineffective.
Can you just add brake fluid?
No, you cannot just add brake fluid to your reservoir. You will first need to check if the reservoir is full and then add the corresponding fluid type in the right quantity to reach the fill line. In addition, you will need to drain your reservoir fully if it has been many years since you last did maintenance or if your car uses DOT 5 fluid.
How do I know if my car needs brake fluid?
You will know your car needs brake fluid when your braking is not as effective or you notice some other problem with your brake pads and pedals. Also, you should refill your fluid if the auto-lock braking system lights turn on. You should also consider refilling this fluid if you notice a burning smell or your car screeches.
