5 Signs You Need to Change the Brake Fluid In Your Car

Glitching brakes are one of the top five mechanical failures responsible for car crashes on the road. And while most of those brake malfunctions happen due to worn out brake pads or a defected ABS, brake fluid can also be sometimes responsible for brake failure.
 
In America, around 6 million drivers get into road accidents each year and sustain serious injuries. But with just a little bit of precaution, most car crashes can be prevented. And one way of doing that is changing the brake oil in your car routinely.
 
But what is brake oil, and why is it essential to change it regularly?

Brake Fluid

Brake oil is a fluid used in hydraulic systems to transfer power through the machinery, such as a vehicle.
 
The brakes in your car also follow a hydraulic system. When you exert pressure on the brake pedal, the hydraulic fluid carries that force to the brakes and activates them. In other ways, the brake fluid is responsible for stopping your car. Without it, you will not be able to stop your vehicle no matter how hard you press on the pedal.
 
Having enough hydraulic fluid in your automobile is critical, but having the right kind of it is equally important. If your brake fluid is contaminated or too old, it will not do the job right. Therefore, you need to refill or change your brake oil timely to ensure your safety on the road. But the question is, what does changing brake oil timely entail? How does one know that they need to change brake fluid?
 
Here are five warning signs that indicate a need for hydraulic fluid change.
 
ABS Lights Come On

 
The ABS or the anti-locking braking system lights will convey if you should top up or replace the brake fluid in your car. Especially if you're riding a new car, the ABS lights will immediately turn on when the oil is insufficient or dirty.
 

Pedal Dysfunction

 
If you start experiencing problems when pressing the pedal, you should check the brake fluid levels in your car. Generally, the pedal becomes stiff or too soft when there is an issue with the hydraulic fluid. If you face any of the two problems, inspect the fluid level and quality.
 

Strange Noises

 
Weird squealing, whirring, or squeaking sounds from your car brakes are also a telltale symptom of inadequacies in the brake fluid. When you hit the pedal and hear strange noises, take your car to a mechanic before a more significant issue surfaces.
 

Brake Pads Stop Working Correctly

 
Malfunctioning brake pads also indicate a need to adjust or change the brake fluid. If you come across glitching brake pads, get the hydraulic fluid checked.
 

A Burning Smell

 
Any kind of putrid smell wafting from a car is a signal of something gone wrong with the engine. However, if you start getting a burning odor from your vehicle, the chances are there is an issue with the brake fluid. Get it filled up or replaced according to the need.
 
 
 
While all these signs are enough of a reminder for you to change the brake fluid, you should do it every two years. Keep yourself and your fellow passengers save on the road by responsibly taking care of the hydraulic fluid in your car.