Beware Bad Brake Fluid
The brake fluid in your car is obviously a critical component of the brake system. Did you know brake fluid can go bad? Well, it can. When it does, it can lead to much brakes or even a complete failure of your brakes. That's just about the last thing you want to deal with.
The brake system on your car is designed to use hydraulic fluids. By creating pressure with these fluids, the pivotal parts of the brake system will engage and release as required. The system is activated by pressing the brake pedal, but the real magic happens at the master cylinder where two pistons are used to move brake fluid. This brake fluid might just seem like any old substance, but it is not.
Brake fluid comes in many brands, but all are basically glycol-based. This fluid is unique in a couple of ways. First, it is toxic to humans so try to avoid getting it in your mouth. Second, the fluid breaks down when in contact with water. Water? Yes. The contact is usually in the context of moisture in the air. This can occur when the top is left off the reservoir for the master cylinder, the bottle of brake fluid you are using or a leak somewhere in the system.
Ah, who cares about a bit of moisture? Well, you should. The moisture in the brake fluid will reduce the boiling point. Sooner or later, this number will drop to the point where the heat generated in the engine compartment and, more importantly, the brakes will cause the brake fluid to boil. Once it boils, it will lose pressure and your brakes will not engage. Your only hope will be to slam the car down through the gears and hope the parking brake is working independently of the hydraulic system if you want to stop!
Brake fluid is one of those maintenance steps you want to slavishly adhere to. Generally, it should be replaced every two years, but make sure to take a look at your owner's manual for specific recommendations for your car or truck.
