How do I know if the brake fluid needs to be changed? The mistake that many drivers make

How do I check and maintain my brakes?

Maybe you missed the signs on the dashboard: the sign lit up (!): Brakes defective, don’t panic! Now it’s time to lift the hood and look for the brake circuit glass. Do not confuse it with that of the coolant, which is more impressive. Our tank is approximately 1 liter in size and has a black lid. The liquid is stored there and possibly refilled.

How do your brakes work?

Pressing a pedal activates a hydraulic pump. It applies pressure to a fluid (brake fluid) that acts on the brake calipers (types of shoes). They surround the brake disc with pads. This mechanical effect on the wheel’s master cylinder slows down your ride. For our breakdown, these components are not faulty: no smell of burning, no noise or smoke  . However, do not forget about the wear and tear of these parts, especially the pads. It is the fluid system that is to blame, now check the level . Markings are on the container, information on the “Builder’s Booklet”. If the level is too low, wait a bit until you’re done and look at the appearance of the liquid. It is designed to be incompressible and must withstand the forces exerted by the brake lever. Result: The pedal sinks and resists.

What is brake fluid? How do I choose it?

Fluid chemistry varies from vehicle to vehicle. It responds to international codification. It takes into account its properties, especially its boiling point: which is the furthest from water at 100 ° C. The pressure releases heat, your liquid should not start to boil.

It was introduced by the US Department of Transportation and begins with the acronym “DOT”. Mineral origin for old cars (DOT 1 or 2), most others make do with synthetic bases (DOT 3 and 4) such as glycol, which protects the rubber seals. Finally, other newer silicone-based ones (DOT 5 and 5.1) also fight against the enemy of the circuit: moisture. Viscosity is also a fundamental element. When the liquid is thicker it reacts more slowly (DOT 3 and 4), when it is liquid it reacts a little faster (DOT 5 and 5.1).

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