5 Signs You Need a Brake Fluid Flush

Brake fluid can become an "out of sight, out of mind" component of a car - we often don't think about it until something goes wrong. However, your brake fluid works hard every day to keep you safe on the road. Over time, it can burn out, deplete, or become dirty, preventing the brake from working properly. Pay attention to these 5 signs that it's time for you to flush your brake fluid. 

Soft, springy or spongy brake pedal

When you press the brake pedal, do you feel it soft, loose, loose, or even springy? Do I need to press the brake pedal all the way down before it slows down and stops the car? This is a signal that the brake fluid needs to be changed. 

A low brake fluid level will cause air to fill the gaps in the brake line, resulting in soft braking. Sponge brake pedals can be terrifying and dangerous, especially if you don't fix them at the first sign of a problem. 

ABS illumination of the dashboard

The ABS indicator on the dashboard indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system. This system prevents the wheels from locking up during braking to prevent skidding and maintain traction. Low brake fluid automatically activates the ABS system to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. 

Inefficient braking

Your brakes need to be fast and responsive to help you stay safe in an emergency. Any delay or difficulty in slowing down or stopping your vehicle is a sign that your brakes need service. Problems like this could be a sign that you need a brake fluid flush. 

Other possible causes include warped rotors, worn brake pads, or a problem with another brake system component. Inefficient braking can also be caused by an underlying problem such as worn tire tread, shock absorbers or struts. A professional can check your brake system and tell you what service you need to get your brakes back up and running.  

Strange sounds or smells when braking

If you hear strange noises when braking, it could be due to low brake fluid or another problem with the brake system. Common sounds include grinding or grinding.

A burning smell after hard braking may mean that your brake fluid has burned out. In this case, you must stop your car in a safe place and let it cool down. You should also contact your local mechanic to get an idea and schedule a visit to a service center. Driving with burnt brake fluid can lead to more serious problems, including brake failure. 

Routine Maintenance of Brake Flush Fluid

When all else fails, you can return to the recommended service schedule for a brake fluid change. On average, you will need a brake fluid flush every 2 years or 30,000 miles. 

Regular maintenance is also highly dependent on your driving style. For example, if you prefer to drive on shorter routes with frequent braking, you may need to flush your brake fluid more frequently. You can check your owner's manual for any brake fluid information specific to your vehicle. 

Brake Fluid Flush: Chapel Hill Tire

Still not sure if you need a brake fluid flush? Bring your vehicle to a local auto mechanic at Chapel Hill Tire. Or better yet, our mechanics will come to you with our pickup and delivery service. We will change all your old, dirty and used brake fluid to get your brakes working again.

Our mechanics proudly serve the Great Triangle area with our 9 offices in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, Durham and Carrborough. We also serve surrounding communities including Wake Forest, Pittsboro, Cary, Nightdale, Hillsborough, Morrisville and more. You can make an appointment here online to get started today! 

Back to resources