The need to change your brake fluid

This article was found in the MotaScene Magazine for the trade by Motaquip. It explains the importance of testing and replacing the brake fluid in your car.

A large number of drivers are unaware of the dangers of driving with defective brake fluid and neglect the need to get it checked and changed regularly.

In fact a recent survey, carried out for Motaquip, revealed that 45% of drivers could be risking their lives everyday by taking to the road with unsafe brake fluid. The survey, which took the form of a series of free brake checks, revealed that almost half of the cars tested had brake fluid that was either unsafe or dangerously unsafe. When the vehicle owners were informed, the majority had little or no idea of the implications.

Brake fluid is designed to have a very high boiling point but as the fluid ages, it absorbs moisture and the boiling point fails. If the boiling point is too low, heat from the braking system can cause the fluid to boil and could result in brake failure.

Part of the problem for drivers is that there is no obvious deterioration in old brake fluid. Quite simply if it fails, it can fail without warning. Old, defective brake fluid is literally a death trap waiting to happen.

Garage staff can help by warning their customers about the dangers of old brake fluid. Just as importantly, garages should ensure that they have the necessary equipment and product available in order to offer their customers a regular brake fluid check and replacement service.

Back