How to Check the Brake Fluid Level?
2 Answers
Brake fluid can be seen on the exterior of the reservoir, which has measurement markings. If the brake fluid is low, the brake warning light on the dashboard will illuminate. The method for selecting brake fluid is as follows: 1. Since the seals in the braking system are made of rubber, prolonged immersion in brake fluid can cause chemical changes, leading to swelling or shrinking of the rubber seals, which affects braking performance. Therefore, it is important to choose brake fluid that is compatible with rubber. 2. High-temperature performance, which refers to the brake fluid's ability to resist vapor lock at high temperatures, is measured by the 'equilibrium reflux boiling point.' A higher equilibrium reflux boiling point indicates better high-temperature performance and a higher quality grade of the brake fluid. 3. Low-temperature performance of brake fluid, which refers to its flow characteristics at low temperatures, is evaluated by its kinematic viscosity at 40°C. If the viscosity is too high at this temperature, it can affect the transmission of braking force. 4. Since many components in the automotive braking system are made of metal, high-quality brake fluid should include various anti-corrosion additives to prevent corrosion of the braking system.
When I first learned to drive, I only checked the brake fluid when the brakes felt unresponsive. Now, I can easily teach you. Park the car on level ground, turn off the engine, and let it cool for 10 minutes. Open the hood and locate the transparent brake fluid reservoir, usually on the master cylinder behind the steering wheel. The reservoir has MIN and MAX level marks, and the fluid level should be between them; if it's below MIN, there might be a leak, and you should inspect the system immediately. Take a quick look every time you change the engine oil—it saves money and ensures safety. Remember not to open the cap casually, as dust can contaminate the fluid, leading to brake failure. I recommend keeping some DOT4 fluid of the same type on hand. Before topping up, clean the opening to prevent spills that could corrode components. Developing this habit can prevent major issues, like sudden brake failure on the road, which is both dangerous and costly to repair. Regular checks will keep you driving safely for thousands of miles.
