How to Check Brake Fluid

Your brakes are one of the most important components of your vehicle, and brake fluid is an often overlooked part of your braking system. If you don’t even know what color is brake fluid, Acura Turnersville is here to help! Learn how to check your brake fluid like a pro and find out why this maintenance task is so crucial before your Cherry Hill commutes.

What is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid, which helps your brake pedal move smoothly. Brake fluid performs a number of functions, including lubricating parts of the system and preventing corrosion. You’ll find formulations that are typically glycol-ether based, but you may also encounter silicone-based (DOT-5) and mineral oil-based (LHM) options. Not sure what you need? Check your owner’s manual.

How Do I Check my Brake Fluid?’

Learning how to check brake fluid just takes three simple steps:

1. Find Your Fluid Reservoir: Look at your owner’s manual to help orient you under the hood. You’ll look for the brake fluid reservoir under the master cylinder.
2. Check Your Levels: Your reservoir will have “minimum” and “maximum” lines written on the outside. If your level is between the lines, you’re good to go. If your fluid is near or below the minimum, schedule a brake service or brake fluid replacement.
3. Inspect the Color: Take a look at the color of the brake fluid. It should be nearly clear. If it’s dark brown or black, schedule a brake fluid flush.

Why Does Acura Brake Fluid Need to Be Changed?

Like your motor oil or transmission fluid, Acura brake fluid also needs to be changed from time to time. And when you change your brake fluid regularly, you can avoid more serious problems down the road.

• Brake fluid draws in moisture, which can cause corrosion on your brakes with time. 
• Brake fluid picks up small particles over time, which can cause damage to your braking system.
• ABS and traction control build up heat during your Maple Shade travels, which can also shorten the lifespan of your brake fluid.

What Color is Brake Fluid? 

When your brake fluid is brand new, it’s usually a clear or slightly yellow-tinted fluid. The longer you use it, the more it becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, This can turn your brake fluid a dark color that resembles motor oil. This indicates that you’ll need to plan a brake flush as soon as possible.

Brake Fluid Service Intervals

How often should you change your brake fluid? Plan to check your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year. Brake fluid can last about four to five years, but that depends on your driving habits around Medford. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your make and model, or just talk with our service department to find out just what your car needs.

Get Quality Car Care at Acura Turnersville

Whether you need to schedule a service or pick up brake fluid at our parts department, feel free to stop by Acura Turnersville for all your automotive needs. Contact us with any questions or visit our dealership in Turnersville to learn more about our offerings.