How to check and maintain brake fluid

All brake fluid systems are sealed systems with special fluid designed to operate at extremely high temperatures. Here’s how to check and maintain the brake fluid in your vehicle.

The first thing to remember is to only use the recommended type of fluid for your vehicle.

Most of today’s vehicles use a DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. These types of fluid have been used universally with most manufactures over the last 20 years.

Check the owner’s manual or parts specialist in your area to help identify the fluid needed.

Before topping up, make sure the reservoir is clean and free of debris that could fall into the system creating a future problem.

The dark color fluid is a sign of old fluid. Make sure the fluid is clear to a golden yellow color.

Most reservoirs have the level indicator on the side.

Note:

Make sure no water or other fluids get into the system. Water is the number one enemy for brake systems and can damage major components as well as cause brake failure.

Remove the reservoir cap and top up between the minimum and maximum with fresh brake fluid from a sealed container. (The level sensor is built into the cap to turn on a light when the fluid gets low)

If brake fluid gets spilled wait until the reservoir cap is secured then attempting to clean up.

Brake fluid is highly corrosive and can damage painted surfaces, electrical connectors, or anything it comes in contact with.

The best way to clean up a spill is to dilute the fluid with water, wipe up and let air dry.

This is a clean reservoir topped up to the maximum level.

Note

The only way the brake fluid can become low is if there is a significant amount of wear to the brake pads or if a fluid leak causes the fluid level to drop. Topping up may be needed to eliminate a level warning light, but also may need a brake inspection to determine the lifespan of your brakes.

Recommendations:

Maintenance intervals should be to change the fluid every two years or 30,000 miles.