Brake Fluid Flush: Warning Signs and Benefits

Driving in Washington state during the rainy season makes the importance of a brake fluid flush even more evident. If your vehicle’s brake maintenance interval is approaching, schedule it right away. A brake fluid flush can prevent corrosion of your vehicle’s brake lines, calipers, and other components in high-moisture climates. Let’s look at the brake fluid flush process, warning signs (like a squishy brake pedal or low brake fluid), and routine brake maintenance benefits.

What Is Auto Brake Fluid?

Auto brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in vehicle brake systems. Most automobiles use a glycol-based formula containing additives to lubricate and prevent corrosion. Glycol is a hygroscopic liquid that inherently attracts moisture. The hygroscopic property of brake fluid automatically absorbs water from the atmosphere. 

How Does Moisture Affect Brake Fluid?

In regions with high humidity and frequent rainfall, such as Washington, water contamination of brake fluid is a common issue. As the moisture level in the fluid rises, the boiling point decreases. Consequently, any heat generated during braking can cause the contaminated fluid to boil at lower temperatures than usual. This boiling creates air bubbles in the brake system. When you apply the brake pedal, these air pockets reduce the fluid’s compression, leading to a squishy feeling. This degradation of your vehicle’s brake fluid can potentially damage your brake system and even lead to total brake failure.

When Should I Schedule A Brake Fluid Flush?

The recommended time interval for a brake fluid flush varies by auto manufacturer, vehicle year, and model. Most modern cars have service intervals ranging from every 2-3 years or 20,000 – 45,000 miles. And some vehicles claim never to need a brake fluid flush. 

Read your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the factory-recommended brake fluid maintenance schedule. Then, consult your service technician to determine the best service interval for your specific needs. Of course, if you experience any unexpected or unusual issues with your brakes, schedule a diagnostic brake service immediately.

Braking System Warning Signs

The braking system should perform flawlessly to maintain a safe driving experience. Changes in brake performance can signal a problem with your vehicle’s brakes. Be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate issues with your brake fluid.

• Squishy Brake Pedal
• Increased Braking Distance
• Brake Pedal Pushes To The Floor
• Brake Light Indicator
• Burning Smell When Using Brakes
• Leaking Brake Fluid
• Low Brake Fluid Level

Benefits Of A Brake Fluid Flush

A brake fluid flush is not just about maintaining your vehicle, it’s about your safety. By removing all the old fluid, rust particles, scale deposits, and moisture from the braking system, a brake fluid flush ensures that your vehicle’s braking system can perform as designed, keeping you and your loved ones safe while driving. 

Fresh Brake Fluid

Fresh brake fluid is usually clear or translucent light brown but will darken with age. Water contamination can cause brake fluid to turn dark, murky, and cloudy. Since brake fluid automatically absorbs moisture, it can contain as much as 3% water over two years of use. 

Prevent Corrosion of Brake Lines & Calipers

New brake fluid prevents corrosion and excessive wear to metal brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder pistons. When the old brake fluid is left in the system too long, these metal braking components can rust from the inside. When a brake line fails, partial or complete brake failure can occur. Corrosion build-up may cause the brake calipers to stick open or closed, resulting in ineffective braking. Additionally, contaminated brake fluid is caustic and causes gaskets and seals to wear, which leads to leaks and low brake fluid.

Responsive Braking

After a brake fluid flush, your brake system is not just well-lubricated and protected from corrosion and excessive heat. The brake fluid will also be free of excess moisture and air bubbles, so no more squishy brake pedal. You can feel relieved and confident that your vehicle will slow and stop when you engage the brakes.

Brake Maintenance in Kirkland, WA

Why guess about your brakes and endanger yourself or your family? Come to Fisher’s Auto Service where our brake repair experts with highly trained technicians and state-of-the-art equipment are ready to provide you with a free brake repair inspection.

Schedule A Brake Fluid Flush

If your Auot is experiencing anything from a squishy brake pedal to low brake fluid, schedule a brake maintenance and brake fluid flush service. Please call us at (425) 441-3626 or visit our website.