HOW DO I CHECK MY BRAKE FLUID

Your braking system is one of the most vital components to your vehicle, especially in terms of safety. Their purpose is to help you slow your vehicle down, or even stop it. Due to this crucial aspect of driving, it's very important that you stay on top of brake service so your vehicle's braking system can function properly. Getting regular service involves replacing the worn brake pads, repairing or replacing the rotors, and even replacing the brake fluid, which is vital to the whole system.

Today, this guide is going to answer some of the questions you have about brake fluid, and we'll even tell you how you can check it yourself so you'll know when your vehicle needs brake service.

What Exactly Does Brake Fluid Do?

Your vehicle's components requires various fluids to function properly, and with your braking system, fluid is the life blood of the braking process. When you begin to add pressure to the brake pedal, the action pushes the fluid through lines to your actual brakes which result in them squeezing the wheels to slow them down or to get them to stop. Your brake fluid must be at the necessary level, as well as clean and free from debris in order to perform the braking function. Your braking system requires a special brake fluid, so be sure to check your owner's manual or talk to one of the technicians at our service center near St. Peters, St. Charles, and O'Fallon.

How Regularly Should I Check My Car's Brake Fluid?

Most manufacturers and service technicians recommend a braking system inspection every 6 months. However, you can actually check the brake fluid yourself, which is recommended about every three months. This will help you get a better idea of what type or brake services you'll need during your next visit to your local service center.

How Can I Check the Brake Fluid in My Vehicle?

Checking your brake fluid is fairly easy, and it's very similar to checking the other fluids in your vehicle. The first step is getting a disposable rag ready before popping open the hood. Once you've got the hood open, look for your brake reservoir, which is almost always labeled BRAKE but you can also check your owner's manual to be safe.

Before opening the reservoir, carefully wipe the cap so you don't risk dropping any dust or debris into the brake fluid reservoir because it can have a negative effect on the brake function. Check the level and make sure that the brake fluid is about an inch from the cap. If you notice that the fluid is low, or dark and dirty looking, you'll want to contact a service professional. You should limit your brake fluid inspection to no more than 15 minutes because temperature and moisture will affect your brake fluid. Once you're done checking your brake fluid, be sure to properly dispose of the rag, especially if it has toxic brake fluid residue on it.

Schedule Your Next Brake Service Appointment at St. Charles Nissan

If you checked your brake fluid, and noticed irregularities like low fluid, or it was dirty, then your next step should be to contact your local service center near St. Peters, St. Charles, and O'Fallon to schedule an appointment. They'll be able to tell you the right course of action in regards to the types of services you'll need, and whether or not you should have the brake fluid replaced. You can rest easy knowing that when you leave, your brakes will be functioning at their absolute best.

You can schedule your next brake service appointment online at St. Charles Nissan so you can get started on properly maintaining your brakes.