Brakes are one of the most important safety elements of your vehicle, which is why their correct maintenance is necessary for efficient and safe driving. Having the car’s brake system ready is a guarantee when it comes to anticipating any obstacle present on the road and being able to stop in time, in order to avoid suffering a traffic accident.
That is why, in addition to replacing the discs and pads when they have exhausted their useful life, drivers should periodically check the condition of the brake fluid. This product, made from glycol or silicone, is responsible for transmitting the braking force to the wheels every time we step on the brake pedal. Excessive heat in the brake fluid could increase the braking and stopping distance of a car. This phenomenon is known as vapor braking lock.
Brake fluid contains a series of additives to improve its operation and increase its durability. However, it is advisable to change it approximately every 2 years, although this time may vary depending on the use you give the car. Driving with bad brake fluid could cause vapor braking lockout. By losing its properties, the boiling point of this liquid is reduced by up to 20%, so it could overheat until it boils and render the brakes useless.
To avoid running out of brakes on the road, we must keep our vehicle’s maintenance up to date. It is essential that, when the date for changing the brake fluid approaches, you go for a check at your trusted workshop or change it yourself at home.
There are, however, some signs that can warn that the effectiveness of the brake fluid is running out. One of the most common is that the brakes feel spongier when applied. That is, if while driving, you notice that to brake correctly it is necessary to put your foot into the pedal more than necessary, you should replace the fluid before the brakes stop working completely.
This happens because, when heated, the brake fluid evaporates and braking becomes less effective. On the other hand, if you notice noises or vibrations when braking or that the pedal is harder than usual, you should go to your workshop as soon as possible to check the brake system and thus prevent a possible accident.
