Everything You Need to Know About Brake Fluid – When it comes to ensuring the safety of your vehicle, few things are as vital as your brakes. The brake system in your car requires many components to work in unison to provide effective stopping power.
Among these critical components is the brake fluid that helps to transmit pressure to the braking system.
In this post, we will delve into everything you need to know about brake fluid, why it is essential, and how much it costs to replace and repair.
Function and Importance of Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is an essential component of the hydraulic brake system, which is responsible for delivering the pressure exerted on the brake pedal to the brakes themselves.
As you step on the brake pedal, it compresses a master cylinder filled with brake fluid.
This pressure is then transmitted throughout the brake lines, making the brake callipers or brake cylinders to close around the brake rotors or drums.
The braking process depends on the force and pressure generated from the brake fluid.
Hence, if the brake fluid is degraded or contaminated, the brake performance will reduce significantly, increasing the risk of brake failure.
Types of Brake Fluid
There are four different types of brake fluids in the market today: DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1.
DOT stands for the Department of Transportation, which is responsible for regulating the quality and standard of brake fluids in the Ireland.
Each type of brake fluid has unique properties and boiling point that are essential for optimal brake performance.
DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids are compatible with most cars and are suitable for everyday driving.
DOT 5 is silicone-based and typically used for high-performance vehicles, while DOT 5.1 is a glycol-based fluid.
How to Bleed & Replace Brake Fluid
Cost of Brake Fluid Replacement and Repair
Brake fluid replacement typically falls under routine maintenance and should be performed every two years or as advised by the vehicle manufacturer.
The cost of brake fluid replacement varies depending on the type and amount of brake fluid required and the labour cost.
On average, the cost of labour to replace brake fluid typically ranges between €75 to €200.
The cost of the brake fluid varies between €10 to €30 per litre and again depends on the required specifications of the brake fluid, which varies from vehicle to vehicle.
In cases of brake fluid repair, the coarse may be higher if the brake line, master cylinder, or brake booster requires replacement.
If you require your car to be transported to your local dealer for a brake fluid service you can get a quote from us.
Warning Signs of Brake Fluid Problems
There are clear warning signs that your brake fluid is old or contaminated and not providing the necessary pressure required for your vehicle’s braking performance.
If you feel a spongy brake pedal, hear unusual noise while braking, or the warning light on your dashboard illuminates, you may have a brake fluid issue.
Be sure to have your brake system checked by a professional mechanic for brake fluid quality, level and leaks, and brake pads for wear and tear.
Conclusion
In conclusion, brake fluid is a vital component of your car’s braking system. It is an essential part of ensuring your vehicle can stop whenever you need it to.
Brake fluid replacement cost varies, but failure to replace brake fluid within the required time frame may cost more in the future.
Brake fluid quality is a critical element to ensure your brake system is functioning optimally and that your vehicle is safe for you and other road users.
Be sure to consult your vehicle manuals and consult a professional mechanic for recommendations and maintenance procedures.
Ensure you stay vigilant and take the necessary steps to maintain your brake fluid to get the best performance out of your brakes.