How to Check Brake Fluid

How do the brakes in your vehicle work? What color is brake fluid? These are common questions that Omaha drivers should know, and Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln has the answers for! It’s no secret that the brakes are one of the most crucial pieces of your vehicle, so making sure that they are running smoothly is vital for the safety of you and your family. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions when it comes to brake fluid to make sure your brakes are working as they should.

What Color is Brake Fluid Normally?

New brake fluid should be almost clear with a yellowish tint to it. Of course, this changes over time as you use your braking system. As we mentioned, dark oil-like brake fluid has picked up dirt and debris over time, which can affect the performance of your brakes if left unattended.

Brake Fluid Service Intervals

Ideally, your brake fluids should be checked on every time you go in for an oil change, or at least once a year. Generally, brake fluids last about 4-5 years, but that depends on the driver’s habits, model, and environment. Make sure to bring your vehicle for scheduled routine maintenance at an OEM-certified service center where a team of certified mechanics will check and change your brake fluid, getting you back on Beatrice roads in no time!

3 Simple Steps on How To Check Brake Fluid

1. Check your owner’s manual to locate your vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder under the hood.
2. Check your brake fluid level against the minimum or maximum lines on the outside of the reservoir. If the brake fluid levels are closer to the minimum line, it is time for you to add brake fluid.
3. Look at the colors of the brake fluid. If your brake fluid color is clear with a yellowish tint, then your vehicle is fine to keep driving on Hickman roads. However, if it is black or dark brown, you’ll need a brake fluid flush.

Why Does Brake Fluid Need to Be Changed?

Does brake fluid need to be changed? The answer is yes for the following reasons:

• Brake fluid attracts moisture, which can cause corrosion on your brakes over time.
• When brake fluid ages, it becomes contaminated with small particles that can damage brake-related systems.
• Systems like ABS and traction control generate heat when they activate, which can shorten the lifespan of your brake fluid.

It’s best to regularly check brake fluid, so you can avoid a scenario where your brakes actually fail to stop your car completely because of damage.

Let the Service Experts at Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln Take Care of Your Vehicle

Now that you know more about how to check brake fluid, as well as what color is healthy brake fluid, the next step is letting Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln take care of your vehicle with proper maintenance. Contact us today with any questions that you might have about the maintenance process, or stop by our dealership in Lincoln.