Can You Drive with Low Brake Fluid?
2 Answers
It is not recommended to drive with insufficient brake fluid. Low brake fluid can lead to poor braking system performance, potentially causing brake failure. It is advised to promptly add brake fluid, ensuring it reaches just below the upper mark and remains above the lower mark. Below are relevant details: 1. Automotive Brake Fluid: Automotive brake fluid, also known as brake oil or hydraulic brake fluid, is a liquid used in automotive hydraulic braking systems to transmit pressure. Since its quality directly affects braking reliability, selecting the right brake fluid is crucial for driver safety and should never be taken lightly. 2. Rubber Swelling Property: Rubber swelling is one of the critical properties of brake fluid. If the brake fluid causes swelling in rubber seals (such as brake cups), it can lead to leaks, reduced braking pressure, and even brake failure, resulting in accidents. 3. Oxidation Stability and Corrosion Resistance: In braking systems, brake fluid undergoes repeated pressure fluctuations, and both working temperature and pressure are higher than in conventional systems. Therefore, brake fluid must possess superior oxidation resistance to prevent the formation of gum, deposits, and corrosive substances. Oxidation stability affects the service life of brake fluid, while corrosion resistance determines its impact on braking system materials and overall system longevity.
If I find that the car's brake fluid level is low, I must never drive it—safety comes first. The braking system relies entirely on hydraulic pressure to transmit braking force. If the fluid level is too low, air can enter the pipelines, making the brake feel spongy or even causing complete failure. I once experienced a similar situation while driving—I nearly had an accident going downhill, but fortunately, I managed to stop in time. My advice is to stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid reservoir. If it's below the MIN line, add some new fluid, but remember this is only a temporary fix. If there's a leak in the system, adding fluid might make it leak even faster, so you should visit a repair shop as soon as possible. Don’t forget to check the fluid level monthly during routine maintenance. If the fluid appears cloudy or dark, it’s a sign that it needs to be replaced. When maintaining your car, the braking system is critical—never risk driving just to save time or effort.
