Have you taken a break to check your brake fluid recently? There are many different fluids in your vehicle that keep it running smoothly and safely. One of the most important fluids in your car is the brake fluid.
Essentially, the brake fluid is what moves the different parts of your vehicle's braking system. Brake fluid helps to deliver the force necessary to stop your wheels when you hit the brake pedal. Without brake fluid, your brakes don't work. Making sure that your car has the proper amount of brake fluid is an easy way to stay safe on the road and avoid unexpected accidents.
There are several signs that indicate your car is low on brake fluid.
1. Your Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) light turns on. In a modern car, your dashboard will light up with the ABS light. This is the easiest way to tell that your brake fluid needs to be changed.
2. Your brakes aren't responding like they used to. If your brake pedal feels firmer or softer, it could indicate the fluid is contaminated or low.
3. Your brakes are making weird noises. If your vehicle is making noise when you brake, it's essential that you have your brakes checked by an automotive technician to diagnose the problem.
4. There's a burning smell when you brake. If there's smoke or a burning odor, then there's a good chance your brakes are overheating. This can lead to complete brake failure and it's necessary to take your car to an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
To keep your vehicle running its best, it's important to perform regular maintenance like checking your brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid simply breaks down and runs out. Additionally, the lines that carry your brake fluid can become worn down and allow contaminants into the fluid.
Most manufacturers recommend changing brake fluid every two years, regardless of mileage. This preventative maintenance is cheap compared to the long-term cost of replacing brake calipers, rusted brake lines, and other beat-up brake parts.
If you think you have low brake fluid, bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today!