Brake Fluid

Brake Fluid is a vital part of your vehicle’s braking system.

It’s a hydraulic fluid, that is often forgotten about.

It works by moving through the vehicle’s brake lines from the brake pedal. Pushing the brake pads onto the disc & brings the vehicle to a stop.

Brake Fluid is a big contributor to braking performance.

It is important because it contributes to the vehicle’s safety. Ensuring that your brakes are always as effective as they can be.

Most manufacturers recommend changing the vehicle’s brake fluid every two years for normal use but if you regularly tow a trailer, horse box or caravan more frequent changes should be considered.

Over time brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. This reduces the effectiveness.

Would I Notice If My Brake Fluid Is Low or Degrading?

Most vehicles have a brake fluid level low warning light. If this is the case have this checked by a professional,

There can be lots of reasons for a low level, the most common is a leaking brake line, brake calliper or wheel cylinder.

Brake fluid degrades over time and leads to symptoms such as a spongey brake pedal. But often a poor-quality fluid can have no symptoms at all to the average driver.

Poor-quality fluid should be picked up on your annual car Service. Brake fluid is not a part of the MOT criteria unless the fluid level is low.

How is brake fluid changed?

Brake fluid is changed through the brake fluid reservoir in the engine bay. Then bled through the vehicle by pushing new fluid through the braking system. removing old fluid from the brake lines at the wheels.

There are several types of brake fluid, so choosing the right one is important. Brake fluid types have different specifications that protect your braking system.

The different types are

• dot 3
• dot 4
• dot 4 esp
• dot 5
• Dot 5.1

Always check your vehicle handbook to make sure you use the correct one for your vehicle. https://www.commaoil.com/products can be used to find the correct brake fluid for your vehicle.

A professional car repair centre will always be able to explain the importance of brake fluid, what type your vehicle requires and when it should be changed. It’s good practice to get it checked when you need to replace part of your braking system. Not only can this save you money on labour as the braking system is already being worked on but it can save you time by utilising the time your car is in the garage more effectively.