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There are many different parts that contribute to the operation of the brakes in a vehicle. Because the braking system is one of the main safety features on a car, all of its parts should be maintained properly.
Many car owners know the basics when it comes to what should be maintained on their vehicles, like changing the oil on a regular basis. Something that is just as important, but might easily be forgotten, is brake fluid.
Brake fluid, also known as hydraulic fluid, is used every time a driver brings their car to a stop. Brakes are unable to function properly without this fluid – so it’s important that it’s kept in good condition.
Keep reading to find out what brake fluid does and why it’s so essential to the operation of the braking system.
Simply put, a car’s braking system doesn’t work without brake fluid. The brake fluid takes the force from the depressed brake pedal, translates it into pressure, and sends this pressure to the front and rear brakes to stop a vehicle.
Brake fluid can’t be compressed, which makes it perfect for use within a hydraulic braking system. It’s able to operate under the high pressure and temperatures generated when a car is coming to a stop. The role that brake fluid plays is relatively simple when broken down:
Without brake fluid, there wouldn’t be the pressure necessary to get your vehicle to a safe and complete stop. Any leaks or fluid that hasn’t been changed in a while can cause issues on the road if not addressed.
You should make sure to check the condition of your brake fluid often and change it on a regular basis to ensure the braking system as a whole is able to run smoothly.
It’s easy to check the condition of brake fluid by looking – a brake fluid reservoir is under the hood and there are markings showing what the appropriate level of fluid should be. Fluid should be added if it’s at a lower level than normal and monitored in case there’s a leak.
A good rule of thumb is to check the brake fluid every time your vehicle gets an oil change. As far as completely replacing the fluid, this time frame can vary depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. Referring to an owner’s manual is the best bet to find the recommended time frame for your specific vehicle.
If your car runs out of brake fluid due to a leak in the system or damage to a part, the brakes are not going to work properly. It’s unsafe to drive with a low amount of brake fluid or a leak in the system.
It’s helpful to know the signs and symptoms that might indicate your vehicle has a low amount of brake fluid. These can include:
Be sure to take these symptoms seriously and ensure that you have the right amount of brake fluid in your vehicle. It might be time for a change!
Knowing what brake fluid does and how it helps with the operation of the system as a whole is a good first step as a car owner. It’s just as important to know the difference between kinds of brake fluids, which are known by different Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers.
The three main types of brake fluid include:
Regardless of its DOT number, brake fluid looks the same across the board. New brake fluid or fluid in good condition is clear and might have a yellow tint to it. It should remain relatively clear through routine checks over the years.
Brake fluid in need of replacement will get darker and darker. It generally will resemble motor oil – anything dark brown or black indicates that the fluid should be replaced.
Changing your brake fluid is something that can be done at home, though it’s important to have some basic understanding of cars and to follow vehicle-specific instructions.
If you’re someone interested or passionate about the automotive field and are looking for a new career, then pursuing an education as an automotive technician could be the next best step to take.
In the Automotive Technology program at Universal Technical Institute (UTI), you’ll learn a range of skills that can help you in your day-to-day life and also your career.1 There’s an entire course on Vehicle Brake Systems that covers all things brake-related, including hydraulic systems and brake fluid.
You can learn more by requesting information online to get in touch with one of our Admissions Representatives, or by calling 1-800-834-7308.
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1) UTI is an educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary.
2) For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.uti.edu/disclosures.
Universal Technical Institute of Illinois, Inc. is approved by the Division of Private Business and Vocational Schools of the Illinois Board of Higher Education.
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