How to Check Brake Fluid

Your brakes are essential to making sure that you are staying safe around St. Simons and beyond. It’s important to know when they’re working properly, and when they’re wearing down. While the team at our service center can easily check and handle any of your maintenance needs, sometimes it’s essential to understand how to check brake fluid yourself while you’re out and about, as well as what color your brake fluid is supposed to be to make sure you’re not driving around with a major repair issue on your hands. Learn more about brake fluid with the team at Nalley GMC, and then contact us with any questions you still have. 

What is Brake Fluid?

As you can guess, brake fluid aid the movement of the brake pedal. The hydraulic fluid is also used to lubricate the braking system and prevent it from corroding. While most vehicles use glycol-ether-based brake fluid, others can use a silicone-based (DOT-5) or mineral oil-based (LHM) fluid. See what type your GMC model uses by checking your vehicle’s owner’s manual. 

3 Steps for How to Check Brake Fluid

Learning how to check brake fluid gives you peace of mind on your Waycross trips, and is relatively straightforward: 

1. Start by locating the vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir. It’s found on the master cylinder under the hood. However, your owner’s manual can point you to the exact location.
2. Note the “minimum” and “maximum” lines on the outside of the reservoir and see where the brake fluid rests. When it’s closer to the “minimum” marking, it’s time to schedule brake service.
3. The brake fluid color is an indicator of your brake condition. When it looks more like oil with a brown or black color, you’ll need a brake fluid flush. If you’re wondering “What color is brake fluid?” read on below. 

The Importance of Changing Brake Fluid

There are a couple of reasons why your brake fluid should be checked and changed when needed: 

• Corrosion can happen over time because brake fluid attracts moisture. 
• As the brake fluid ages, it can become contaminated by debris and other small particles that cause further damage to the brakes and other systems. 
• The heat from related systems like ABS and traction control can shorten your brake fluid’s lifespan. 

What Color is Brake Fluid? 

Typically, new brake fluid appears almost clear with a yellowish tint. As the fluid ages and your take your Jessup drives, you’ll notice the change in color. When your vehicle picks up dirt and debris and your fluid turns to an oil-like color, it can begin to affect your performance if left untreated. 

When Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?

Technicians recommend you check your brake fluid with every oil change, or at least once a year. On top of knowing what color brake fluid is, it’s also helpful to know that brake fluid lasts around four to five years. However, that can vary depending on your driving habits, your GMC model, and the road around Jessup. Schedule your routine service or a brake inspection with our service center and our technicians can keep you updated on these essential services. 

Get Your Service Needs at Nalley GMC

From routine maintenance to full on repairs, the service center at Nalley GMC can make sure your vehicle stays on the road for years to come. Our team is here to make sure your vehicle remains well performing, safe, and reliable no matter where the road takes you. You can take advantage of the service specials today at Nalley GMC for additional ways to save.