Blog Layout

Brake Fluid: What It Does and Why It’s Important

Brake fluid is a chemical solution in your vehicle’s hydraulic braking unit that transforms the force of your foot on the pedal into pressure to initiate a slowdown or stop in movement. However, brake fluid can go bad, considering its ability to absorb moisture. As it absorbs water, it can become less effective.


But these are just the basics! In this article, you’ll learn exactly what brake fluid does and why it’s important to your car:


What Is the Purpose of Brake Fluid?


The moment you place your foot on the brake pedal, pressurized brake fluid flows into the brake lines to increase the stopping force. The harder you press on the pedal, the more pressurized the fluid becomes to stop your vehicle when it’s in motion.


Brake fluid continues to move through the brake lines until it reaches each wheel caliper. The fluid forces the pistons to transfer pressure from the brake pads to the spinning rotor. Once the pads move against the rotor, friction occurs and allows the wheels to slow down or stop.


Considering this happens in a matter of seconds, you should regularly check your brake fluid to ensure it’s always responsive.


How Do You Know When Brake Fluid Needs Replacing?


Brake fluid is usually a transparent color. However, it can collect dust and debris over time or leak from the vehicle. Fluid that’s not clean and clear indicates the need for replacement.



If the fluid falls below the “full” indicator in your vehicle’s reservoir, you need to top it off. Here are some other signs of low brake fluid:


  • Soft pedal: A pedal that sinks to the floor without much resistance could signal low fluid levels.
  • Oil puddle under vehicle: An oily puddle underneath your vehicle can signal a brake fluid leak. In this case, have a professional look at the rubber hoses, calipers, and master cylinder for fluid leaks.
  • ABS warning: If this light illuminates on your dashboard, it might be time to have your car inspected. Your antilock brake system (ABS) requires the brake fluid to work efficiently, and if this light is blinking, it could be a sign of a leak or something more detrimental.
  • Old brake pads: Brake pads do wear down and become thinner over time. The thinner the pad, the more brake fluid it will require to fill the caliper and transfer pressure to the brakes.


Now that you know what brake fluid does and why it’s important, it might be time for a checkup! You can certainly replace brake fluid by yourself, but consider Advanced Vehicle Technology Services to assist you. Our technicians specialize in car brake repair to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and operational at all times. Feel free to browse our webpage for more information.

You might also like

By Tony Mers 29 Oct, 2024
The suspension system impacts many aspects of your vehicle, from ride comfort to vehicle handling. Whether you want to enhance your vehicle’s performance or enjoy a smoother drive, review these tips for choosing the right suspension for your driving needs. Learn About the Different Types of Suspensions Start your search by familiarizing yourself with the different types of automotive suspensions. Independent suspensions, such as MacPherson strut and double wishbone setups, can improve ride quality. Alternatively, solid axle suspensions provide durability and load-bearing capabilities. Understanding these options will help you match the suspension type to your driving needs. Consider the Way You Drive Another tip is to find a match for your driving habits. For example, a performance-oriented suspension with stiff springs and shocks may be best if you enjoy spirited driving and frequently take corners at high speeds. Conversely, a standard suspension is better if you primarily use your car for daily commuting and long highway drives. Evaluating your driving style will guide you toward a suspension that enhances your experience behind the wheel. Determine Your Car’s Weight You must also find a suspension system that supports your vehicle’s weight. Every suspension has a weight rating, and ignoring it can damage your vehicle and put you in danger. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to confirm that the suspension you’re considering will tolerate your vehicle and additional cargo or modifications. Think About Where You Travel When looking at suspensions, you should consider where you drive your vehicle. If you frequently take rough trails or uneven surfaces, an off-road suspension with increased ground clearance and durable components will serve you well. On the other hand, you should turn to a standard suspension if you mainly drive on city streets and highways. Tailoring your suspension to your driving environment enhances safety and driving pleasure. Make It Work With Your Budget While you may feel tempted to splurge on top-tier suspension systems, keep your budget in mind. High-end suspensions offer superior performance and durability but come at a premium price. Conversely, you may be able to find more affordable options that provide substantial improvements over stock suspensions. Assess your financial situation and set a realistic budget to get the best value without compromising on quality. Considering these factors will help you choose a suspension that makes your driving experience more comfortable and enjoyable. If you need to repair or replace your current system, Advanced Vehicle Technology Services can help. With our suspension service , you’ll enjoy smooth rides in your car once again and have more control while steering.
A mechanic changes the oil on a vehicle and lets the old oil pour into a bucket.
24 Sep, 2024
You can provide care to your vehicle, but there are tasks only pros should handle. Learn tips for DIY maintenance and when to leave it to the professionals.
A mechanic wearing a blue shirt and glasses works on a suspension system underneath a lifted car.
14 Aug, 2024
Your suspension is just as important to your car as the engine. Become a better car owner by learning five common reasons your suspension goes bad.
More Posts
Share by: