How To Check Brake Fluid

Functioning brakes are obviously essential to safe driving around Irvine and Costa Mesa. This means it’s also essential to regularly check your brake fluid, which  is a hydraulic fluid that helps with the movement of the brake pedal. It also lubricates your braking system and keeps it from corroding. Brake fluid in most vehicles in glycol-ether based, but there are also silicone-based (DOT-5) and mineral oil-based (LHM) fluids available. Check your owner’s manual to find out which type your specific model uses, and learn how to inspect brake fluid from the Jaguar Newport Beach service center.

3 Steps to Check Brake Fluid

1. Locate your vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder under the hood. Check your owner’s manual to find the exact location.
2. On the outside of the reservoir you should see “minimum” and “maximum” lines. Check the brake fluid against these lines. If the brake fluid is closer to the minimum line, it’s time for a brake fluid replacement or brake service.
3. Take a look at the color of the brake fluid. If it’s dark brown or black and looks more like oil, you’ll need a brake fluid flush.

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

You should check your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year. Brake fluid can last about four to five years, but this varies depending on the car, driving habits, and driving conditions. If you bring your vehicle in for routine scheduled maintenance at an OEM-certified service center, the certified technicians will know when to check and change your brake fluid.

Jaguar Newport Beach Helps with Brake Service

You can change your brake fluid at home, or you can schedule an appointment at your local authorized service center near Huntington Beach. Our highly trained technicians can change your brake fluid and let you know if your brakes require any additional service. Jaguar Newport Beach also offers additional service tips, like how to check your car oil, tips for washing your car, and more.

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