BRAKE FLUID, STOPPING POWER & PASSENGER SAFETY
Brake Fluid is a hydraulic liquid that is great for braking system performance because it won’t compress even under the most intense pressure and heat. Since it won’t compress, it is the perfect fluid for transferring force when it is put under pressure. When you press the brake pedal and fire up the master cylinder, the brake fluid transfers the stopping power through the calipers, into the brake pads, and this creates friction with the brake rotors to stop your vehicle. Brake Fluid should be considered the blood of your brake system because it provides a vital function. Brake Fluid is great for hydraulics but it has one weakness; it absorbs water. When Brake Fluid absorbs too much water, the pressure and heat from braking can cause the water to evaporate. When water evaporates in the brake line with brake fluid, the areas of water vapor can compress. Since the brake system needs to transfer force without compressing, water-contaminated brake fluid is a major problem for your vehicle’s stopping power and safety.
How to tell if my Brake Fluid is Contaminated?
Brake Fluid that is contaminated with water will likely show some warning signs. If you have any of these signs of contaminated Brake Fluid, we strongly recommend scheduling a Brake Fluid Exchange Service at Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet:
- Noise in the brakes - grinding, screeching, squealing, chattering, or whining
- Soft or hard feeling in the brake pedal
- Brakes that won’t apply force, drag, or get stuck
- Vehicle pulls to one side while braking