How to Check Brake Fluid

Your vehicle’s brakes are a vital part of your car’s safety. They allow your vehicle to stop properly and in time. When your brakes are in less-than-ideal condition, they can become problematic at best. Along with regular brake checks, learning how to check brake fluid in your car is a great way to ensure your braking system stays in great shape.

But if you’re not sure what color is brake fluid or where to find it in your vehicle, the service team at Greg Hubler Buick GMC is here to help! We’ll walk you through everything that you need to know about brake fluid. Learn what brake fluid does, how to check brake fluid properly, and know when to bring your vehicle into our service department for all of your brake service and other maintenance needs.

What Is Brake Fluid?

Your car’s brake system relies on hydraulics, which means it requires fluid to move the parts properly. When you hit the brake pedal on Gas City roads, pressurized brake fluid will start moving through brake lines to bring your car to a stop using various pistons to increase or decrease pressure. The pressure then clamps down on brake calipers that scrape against the disc brakes, which slows down the wheels.

Brake fluid also lubricates your braking system and prevents corrosion. The most common formulations are glycol-ether based, but there are also silicone-based (DOT-5) and mineral oil-based (LHM) fluids available. Which brake fluid works for your vehicle? Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

Why Must Technicians Periodically Change Brake Fluid?

Like most automotive fluids (think motor oil and transmission fluid), changing brake fluid regularly puts your vehicle in top shape for Hartford City roads.

Why is changing brake fluid so important?

• Brake fluid attracts moisture over time, which can corrode your braking system.
• Brake fluid becomes contaminated with small particles with age, and those particles can damage your brakes.
• Systems like ABS and traction control generate heat, which can cause your brake fluid to break down more quickly.

How to Check Brake Fluid Properly

1. Find your car’s brake fluid reservoir. It will be located on the master cylinder under the hood. If you can’t find it, check your owner’s manual for a diagram. Or call our service department at (765) 293-0035, and we’ll help you!
2. Look for the “minimum” and “maximum” lines on the master cylinder’s reservoir. Check the brake fluid against these measurement lines. If your brake fluid is between the lines, you’re good to go. If it’s close or under the minimum line, add more brake fluid.
3. Examine the color of the brake fluid. If you notice that it looks more like thickened oil with a dark brown or black color, you’ll need to schedule a brake fluid flush.

What Color Is Brake Fluid Normally?

You know that dark brown or black brake fluid is not the best. What color is brake fluid normally? New brake fluid should be almost clear with a faint yellow tint. It becomes darker over time as it picks up debris and contaminants. That’s why a darker color can indicate a need for a fluid flush and change, and why it’s easy to detect if you need new brake fluid. If you know how to check brake fluid and do so frequently, you can spot any changes before they become major issues.

Brake Fluid Service Intervals

Our service team recommends checking your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year (whichever comes first). On average, brake fluid can last four to five years before changing brake fluid. However, the interval between changes depends on your driving habits, your vehicle, your driving conditions, and numerous other factors. Our technicians can help you determine exactly when to replace your brake fluid during a routine maintenance visit.

Schedule Your Next Service with Greg Hubler Buick GMC

Are you due for your next brake check? Feel free to contact us in Marion or call (765) 663-4126 with any questions about brake maintenance. We’re happy to help with any questions or concerns you have about repairs or your driving experience in Wabash. For convenience, schedule your next service appointment through our online portal. We look forward to hearing from you!