When you are driving and need to slow down, you simply press on your brake pedal and your vehicle will decrease in speed. It’s just that easy! But it’s important to remember that every time you apply your brakes, parts of your braking system wears down.
There are many important parts to your braking system but in this blog we are going to discuss the brake fluid and the importance of a brake fluid flush.
The Purpose Of Your Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a liquid chemical solution designed to transfer the movement and force created when you press down on the brake pedal.
So, when we put our foot on the brake pedal, the fluid transfers the force into pressure to the rear and the front brakes, which stops the vehicle.
4 Reasons Why A Brake Fluid Flush Is Necessary For Fairfax, VA Drivers
- Brake fluid is hygroscopic in nature – This means that it absorbs water. The absorption rate is around 1.5 to 3% every year based on operating conditions and temperatures. (You didn’t know mechanics could talk science, did you?!) If there is excess water in the brake fluid, it will lower the boiling point. When you press the brake pedal, a low boiling point might lead to your fluid vaporizing. This could reduce your brakes functionality.
- Brake fluid can become compressed – The lower the boiling point, the easier it is to boil fast and form air bubbles. These bubbles can allow the fluid to become compressed. Compressed fluid can cause the brake pedal to soften. Driving with a ‘soft’ brake pedal is extremely dangerous because your brakes could fail at any moment. Even if they don’t fail, they will be inefficient, possibly leading to an accident
- Your brake fluid collects dirt and debris – As brake fluid moves through your braking system, it picks up dirt and debris from the natural wear and tear of the system. This dirt and debris gets stuck in the parts and moves throughout your braking system, until you get a brake fluid flush.
- Brake fluid is an integral part of the braking system – Brake pressure forces fluid to the brakes, causing the pads to clamp down on the rotors, attached to the wheel hubs that spin as the wheel turns. The high pressure causes the car to slow down. Without clean brake fluid, pressure can’t be created to stop your vehicle.
Due for a brake fluid flush now? We would love to assist you with your brakes.
