A brake fluid exchange service is essential to the optimal performance of your brake system. When you apply pressure to your brake pedal and engage your vehicle’s brakes, a system begins working to slow/stop your vehicle. When your brakes engage, the heat created from the contact of parts against each other can potentially damage your vehicle, if there is nothing to keep your brakes from burning up. Your vehicle’s brake fluid plays the role of keeping your brakes from overheating and potentially failing. You will be able to notice a few signs that indicate when it’s time to have your brake fluid exchanged at Hibdon Auto Center.
Brake fluid is a substance that is hygroscopic, meaning that it attracts moisture from the air. Because your brake system is made up of metal parts, when your brake fluid attracts too much moisture, you leave parts of your brake system prone to corrosion. When your brake fluid becomes contaminated, corrosion isn’t the only potential danger – non-functioning fluid may cause your brakes to overheat or even fail. Given that your anti-lock braking (ABS) and traction control systems are also prone to damage from moisture in your contaminated brake fluid, having a brake fluid exchange performed protects those vital systems from taking any unnecessary damage. Brake fluid exchanges are much more affordable services than replacing rusted brake lines, brake calipers, and other brake parts, so it’s best to stay on top of replacing your brake fluid in order to prevent those more major services.
Overheating of the brakes is a major sign, as it’s likely the case that your brake fluid is old and is doing a poor job of keeping your brakes cool. A decrease in your brakes’ stopping power could mean that your fluid is in bad shape, too. If your brake pedal feels soft and it’s hard to stop your car, this could be an indicator that your brake fluid has created air in the brake lines, meaning that you’ve lost braking power from bad brake fluid. The most obvious sign that will come to you is if your ABS warning light comes on – most modern-day vehicles will have warning lights for their brakes systems, but not all. If you notice a light indicating your brakes may have an issue, it’s best to schedule a service appointment.
If you begin to notice your vehicle’s brake fluid issues, bring it into the professionals at Hibdon Auto Center. We’re more than ready to give you a great price for our high-quality service. Schedule your appointment online or call our service department today.
