Why should you monitor your brake fluid?

Hey DUO member, did you know that you should check your brake fluid level periodically?

When you step on the brake pedal, it is the brake fluid that transfers this force from your foot into pressure to the brakes and stops the vehicle. If there is too little brake fluid in your brake system, it may not be able to build up the pressure needed to stop the vehicle.

To check your vehicle's brake fluid, locate the brake fluid reservoir. Most vehicles have a translucent reservoir marked with visible "MAX" and “MIN” level lines. If you notice that the fluid level is below the “MAX” level line, your vehicle may be low on brake fluid. Other signs that your vehicle’s brake fluid needs to be changed include discoloured or dirty brake fluid, the brake warning light illuminating in your instrument panel, and a soft spongy feeling when you step on the brake pedal. It is important to note that you should not drive your car if the low brake fluid indicator (with engine running and parking brake fully released) is on.

Most brake fluids absorb moisture from the atmosphere. As many parts surrounding the brake system are metallic, changing the brake fluid periodically will prevent corrosion and failure of the metal parts. Therefore, it is recommended that the brake fluid be changed every 40,000 kilometres or when necessary.