Changing the oil and fluids in a vehicle is always a change for the better. Dirty engine oil and transmission fluids are bad news for a car, but what about brake fluid? Many motorists know that this fluid should be topped off, but do they know if it ought to be changes?
Brake fluid in the typical vehicle can become contaminated in two years or less. This happens due to moisture absorption. Under heavy braking conditions, including mountainous or hilly driving or when towing a trailer, moisture in the overheated fluid vaporises and braking efficiency reduces.
Brake problems vary with the make, model and age of a car and other variables. Here is how to check if there is a problem:-
- Step off the brakes with the car's engine turned off. A soft or mushy brake pedal indicates a low or high level of brake fluid
- If it is safe, drive the car at a low speed, braking when needed. If your brakes squeel, you may need new pads or to clean the brakes
- In a clear area, step sharply on the brake pedal. If the brakes do not stop the car effectively, several things may be wrong, including worn pads, contaminated brake fluid or brake pads
- If brakes pull the car to one side you may have insufficient hydraulic pressure in one part of the brake system. you may need to adjust the brake's clearance, or replace the pads or rotors
- Begin driving forward slowly. If the brakes bind or drag, it may be due to grease on the pads or scored rotors
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