How to Check Brake Fluid

The health of your brakes is essential for maintaining your safety on the streets of Chatham. Checking your brake fluid is one of the steps you can take to ensure your brakes are in good condition. Like your tires or car oil, your brakes wear out and need replacement periodically. Knowing how to check your brake fluid can help you judge when you need to have your brakes replaced. Reference this guide to checking your brake fluid, and visit our service department when it’s time for a brake replacement. Our parts specials can help alleviate your service costs!

What is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps move the brake pedal. It acts as a lubricant for your brakes and keeps them from corroding. Brake fluid is usually glycol-ether based, but not always. Brake fluid can also be:

• Silicone-based (DOT-5)
• Mineral oil-based (LHM)

Your owner’s manual will tell you which type of brake fluid your vehicle uses.

How to Check Brake Fluid in Three Easy Steps

1. Check your owner’s manual to find the location of your vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder.
2. Locate the minimum and maximum lines outside the reservoir, and check the brake fluid against these lines. If the brake fluid is closer to the minimum line, stop by Green Dodge for a brake fluid replacement.
3. Determine what color your brake fluid is. If it’s closer to brown or black and resembles oil, you should come in for a brake fluid flush.

What Color is Brake Fluid Normally?

If you’re asking yourself, “What color is brake fluid?” our service team can help! New brake fluid is clear with a yellowish tint. Your brake fluid will change color with time and use. Once your brake fluid reaches a dark brown, you should have it replaced here at Green Dodge. Dark brown color indicates the presence of dirt and debris, which will hinder the performance of your vehicle. When it’s time to have your brake fluid changed, you can schedule maintenance at our service department in Springfield.

Service Your Vehicle at Green Dodge

Knowing how to check brake fluid is a common concern among those performing at-home maintenance. You can check and change your brake fluid, reset your check engine light, and program your Dodge key fob from your garage or bring it in for professional service at Green Dodge in Springfield. Taking care of your car is essential, as poor maintenance will decrease your vehicle’s value and lifespan. Mopar brakes will last longer and perform better than aftermarket parts, so next time you need a brake replacement, buy brakes that are built to last with Mopar. Our Mopar coupons can help Rochester, and Decatur drivers buy quality parts for their vehicle at a price they can afford.