One of the first things we learn about vehicles is what makes them run but what we also
need to be focusing on is what makes them stop. While you may know the basics about
brake pads and rotors, there’s more to your car’s brake system than that!
It may sound simple, but brake fluid is an integral part of the equation of how your
vehicle comes to a stop. Brake fluid is responsible for moving the various components
of your vehicle's brake system. The fluid operates under high temperature and high
pressure and, without it, your car or truck would not be able to stop when you push the
brake pedal.
However, the brake fluid is hygroscopic. That means it absorbs water like a sponge. The
moisture in the brake fluid can thus cause corrosion of the expensive parts of the brake
system and simultaneously decrease the boiling point of the fluid, thereby making your
car’s brakes less effective. A brake fluid flush might be needed in this situation.
What is a Brake Fluid Flush?
A brake fluid flush involves draining out old, contaminated fluid from the brake system
and replacing it with clean, fresh brake fluid. Flushing helps maintain the health and
effectiveness of your vehicle’s brakes. Considering the effects that contaminated brake
fluid can have on your car’s brake system, it is a good idea to have the brake fluid
flushed about every two years or for every 50,000 km.
Any issue with the brakes should not be taken lightly. Getting a brake inspection every
six months or so is the best way to ensure that your car’s braking system is in proper
condition.
At Right Way Auto Repair, we perform a thorough brake inspection of the entire brake
system, including the following: the brake pedal, brake fluid, brake lines and hoses and
the brake assemblies. Have our technicians examine your vehicle's brake system to
ensure your safety. We can determine if the fluid requires changing with a simple litmus
test and flush the system out.