Brake Fluid Inspections
Brake fluid inspections are an important yet easy to perform vehicle safety check. Often car owners will complain about brake system problems, in particular about the way the brakes feel or sound. The car owner should have a basic education on things that they can check themselves as well as being able to recognize signs of a problem.
DOT 4 Brake fluid
Checking the brake fluid is a good place to start and can tell you more about the condition of the brakes than you may realize. Brake fluid is the lifeblood of any hydraulic brake system and is responsible for proper operation.
Brake fluid not only serves as a lubricant to the many parts that it comes in contact with it also fights corrosion and rust in those components and brake lines.
On the negative side brake fluid readily absorbs moisture. This is known as a hydroscopic fluid, and is why brake fluid should be sealed properly and not stored in open containers.
Keep in mind that a mechanic should perform a complete inspection of the brake system including rotors, calipers, pads and road testing the vehicle to confirm any complaints.
But this doesn’t mean the average car owner can’t get involved with their own automobiles well-being.
