Why is it necessary to change Brake Oil?

25 Jun 2024

Index:

• Introduction
• What if one does not change the Brake Oil?
• How would you know except sample testing?
• How do you know if the Brake Oil is leaking?
• How will you change your brake fluid?

Motor vehicle brake fluids are utilized to transfer energy to the actuating mechanism in the hydraulic drive of the brake assembly of a car and to expel heat from the brake discs. The main requirements for brake fluids are high operation temperatures, good low-temperature and viscosity-temperature properties, physical and chemical stability, protection of metals from corrosion, inactivity with respect to mechanical rubber articles, and lubricating effect. As it is safety concern if brake Oil does not function after certain time there is a need arises to top up brake oil in your vehicle.

In fact, it is true that it depends on car make, model, whether conditions and also a habit of a driver.

Rough driving and driving at constant load may reduce life of brake oil. Presently the question is how do we know? It can be sampled and monitored for its physical and chemical condition in the laboratory. There by one can know if it is usable or need to change brake oil.

But every time it does not become feasible to sample and verify appropriateness. It is recommended to change brake fluid at every 2 to 3 year of interval however as described above if vehicle is used under harsh conditions and heavy loads then this changeover may turn in to 1 to 2 years.

What if one does not change the Brake Oil?

Unmistakable behavior of brake fluids is to absorb moisture from environment. Now, how is this affecting performance? This can corrode metal parts of hydraulic system and thereby cause damage to the braking system. As result of wear and tear there are chances that braking may face failure.

Many times brake oil degradation happens because of constant high temperature and already absorbed moisture. This condition enhances acidity in the system and finally tend to generate corrosion.

In addition to the exposure to the elements, there might be times that your bleeder valve is loosened or damaged. This causes your brake fluid to spill out which presents another reason for a brake fluid change. However, it’s important to check your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, as some manufacturers may recommend more frequent brake fluid changes.

How would you know except sample testing?

• Brake fluid is a clear product

  With the age, many contaminants like dirt, water, small debris enters into braking system and mixes with brake oil. Now this is cause a color change in brake oil from clear liquid to slight opaque with changes in color like brownish or dark.

• Quality of brake paddle

  Brake paddle becomes spongy and ineffective. As dirt and moisture contaminates brake oil it starts corrosion in the brake lines.

• Signal to change the fluid

  Now a day many modern vehicles comes with indication of brake fluid change in the dashboard itself.

• Odor change

  overused brake oil starts smelling like charred when brakes are applied

How do you know if the Brake Oil is leaking?

Brake fluid spills can be caused by a variety of factors, including damaged brake lines or hoses, a defective master cylinder or brake caliper, or a spilling wheel cylinder. When a brake fluid leak occurs, it can cause your braking system to become a lot less effective, affecting the safety of your vehicle.

Brake fluid leaks can be detected by:

• Small puddles of yellowish or reddish fluid appearing under the vehicle
• Low levels of brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir
• Several of the symptoms of old brake fluid mentioned above – such as increased stopping distance, burning smells, and warning lights.

If you suspect that your car has a brake fluid leak, it’s vital to have your vehicle reviewed by a mechanic. They will be able to identify the source of the leak and recommend the necessary fixes to ensure that your brakes are functioning safely and effectively.

How will you change your brake fluid?

You should acquire knowledge and skill since a brake fluid change is usually performed by an authorized mechanic. Secondly, you should see that if your self-service is valid as far as insurance claim and third party claim is concerned. Because many times car manual says that it has to be changed by authorized service agency only other wise car manufacturer would not take responsibility.

Below steps to be followed:

1. Drain All Your Brake Fluid

   First you will need to elevate your car on axle stands in order to remove all four tires. After that, you will locate your brake master cylinder. In the case of manual brakes, it is attached to the firewall and linked to the brake pedal. If you have power brakes, you will find it attached to the brake booster. Once you find it, take off the cap and drain the old fluid with a vacuum pump.

2. Fill up with the new fluid a Start flushing and bleeding the brakes

   After the master cylinder has been drained, you will then fill it with new brake fluid. From there, you can attach the brake bleeder hose to the furthest caliper bleeder screw and place the other end into a jar that will catch the fluid. Your help can press on the brake pedal to keep this process going. Repeat this part of the procedure until you no longer see air bubbles. Additionally, you will keep filling the reservoir with new fluid, ensuring that it never goes empty.

3. Repeat the above process and refill

   You will repeat the above process of flushing and then bleeding all the brakes while refilling the reservoir as you go. Once they are completed, then you will need to top off the reservoir, taking care not to fill above the line.

   Hope by now you have a hint on how important is to change the brake fluid at defined interval or at specific symptoms as mentioned above.