How to Check Brake Fluid in Turnersville

As one of the most vital components of your vehicle, it’s important that your brakes are in working order on the roads around Sicklerville. On top of making sure your brakes aren’t too worn down, checking your brake fluid regularly allows you to stay on top of the health of these components. Learning how to check brake fluid gives you insight into the health of your brakes and can help you spot smaller issues before they become large, more expensive repairs. Read on as we answer “what color is brake fluid?” and walk you through the fluid checking process. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

What is Brake Fluid?

Your smooth performance around Deptford is controlled in part by the hydraulic fluid that aids the movement of your brake pedal. The brake fluid in your vehicle lubricates the brake system and keeps it from corroding. Typically, brake fluid is glycol-ether based, however, silicone-based (DOT-5) and mineral oil-based (LHM) fluids are also found in vehicles. To see what fluid is used in your Chevrolet, check your owner’s manual.

How to Check Brake Fluid in 3 Steps

Whether you’re new to car care or a DIY maintenance expert, these quick steps easily teach you how to check your brake fluid:

1. The brake fluid reservoir is located on the master cylinder under the hood of your vehicle. Your owner’s manual has the exact location of where you can find it in your model.
2. On the side of the reservoir, you’ll see “minimum” and “maximum” lines. See where the fluid lies. When the fluid is closer to the minimum line, that means it’s time to schedule a brake fluid replacement or brake service.
3. Now’s the time to observe the brake fluid color. A dark brown or black color that looks more like oil means it’s time for a brake fluid flush.

If you’re wondering, “what color is brake fluid?” we’ll cover that in more detail below.

Importance of Changing Brake Fluid

Like many other fluids in your vehicle, the brake fluid should be changed on your vehicle’s recommended schedule for the following reasons:

• It’s natural for brake fluid to attract moisture. However, this moisture can cause corrosion on your brakes over time.
• Over time the brake fluid can also become contaminated with small particles that can lead to damage in the brake-related systems.
• As your ABS and traction control systems generate heat when activated, they can affect the lifespan of the fluid.

What Color is Brake Fluid?

When you’re purchasing brake fluid, it will appear almost clear with a slight yellowish tint. As it moves through your system, the color will change over time. When the color turns a dark oil-like color from dirt and debris picked up over time, you can be sure that it’s time to change your brake fluid.

When Should You Schedule Brake Fluid Service?

It’s recommended that you change your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year. Typically, brake fluid can last around four to five years, but the lifespan can vary depending on your driving habits, the driving conditions around Williamstown and Glassboro, or the vehicle itself. When you bring your vehicle to the Chevrolet Of Turnersville service center for routine maintenance, our technicians will know to check and change your brake fluid, as necessary.

Take Care of Your Vehicle with Chevrolet Of Turnersville!

If it’s time for brake service, our certified technicians at Chevrolet Of Turnersville are here for all your service needs. Be sure to save on your next visit by taking advantage of our available offers for a variety of common services. If you’re interested in more DIY car care tips you can perform at home, browse our other service tips and tricks.