How to Check Brake Fluid
Learning how to checkbrake fluidin a car can help you maintain your brake system fail-safe. The brake fluid is one of the most important components of the hydraulic system of your car brakes. It can effectively transfer pressure to activate the brake mechanism as soon as you step on the brake pedal to slow or stop the car. However, it also works as a lubricant and moisture control agent for key parts in the system. Yet, for the brakes to operate properly, the system should have the correct amount of brake fluid, free of air and contaminants.1. Locating the brake master cylinderThebrake master cylindergenerates the necessary pressure for the brake system to operate and holds the reservoir for the fluid. Therefore, you need to find this component in order to check the brake fluid in your car. If you open the hood, you will find the master cylinder mounted on the brake booster. This is a large, round component located around the upper section of the driver’s side of the engine compartment. Connected to the booster, find the metal cylinder with a metal or plastic container-the reservoir-on top.2. Checking the brake fluidWipe dust and grease off thebrake fluid reservoirusing a clean rag to prevent contamination of the system before removing the lid. Remove the lid off by hand, pry off the spring clip, or unscrew the bolt from the top, depending on your particular vehicle make and model. With the lid off, check the fluid for contamination like rust, dirt particles and the presence of water around the inside of the reservoir. If you find signs of contamination, it is a good idea to have your brake system flushed and the fluid replaced. This will prevent rapid wear of brake components and possible failure of the brake system in the near future.Now, check the fluid level against the side marks on the reservoir. The level should be at the MAX mark. If your reservoir doesn't have this mark, make sure it is about a 1/4-inch from the top of the container. If necessary, add the type of brake fluid recommended by your car manufacturer. Consult your car owner's manual or vehicle service manual. Replace the reservoir lid and make sure it is seating properly to keep air and other contaminants from entering the system.To keep your brake system in good shape, include the brake fluid level check as part of your car maintenance schedule every month and make a quick visual inspection of the fluid anytime you need to open the hood. Of course, you need to check the level whenever the low-fluid warning light on your dashboard comes on as well. However, if you find yourself adding brake fluid regularly, you need to have the brake system inspected for a possible leak and fix the problem.
