5 Signs Your Vehicle Is Losing Brake Fluid

In order to work correctly, your brakes needs fluid. Wondering if you're losing fluid due to a leak? Wondering if your fluid is running low for other reasons? Here are five signs that you need to replace your brake fluid.

1. Your Brake Pads Are at the End of Their Lifespan

Generally, your car has enough brake fluid to last through the lifetime of the brakes. At the point when you need new brakes, you may also need new fluid. If you hear a lot of screeching when you brake, that's the sound of metal on metal, and it's a sign that you need new brakes and more fluid.

2. Your Brakes Are Unresponsive Without Screeching

If your brakes are unresponsive but you don't hear the telltale screeching noise that indicates your pads have worn out, that's another sign of leaking or low fluid. In these cases, you may push on the brake pedal, and it may feel as if it's sinking straight to the floor of your car.

Your brake fluid provides resistance in your system, and if you don't feel that resistance, that's a sign that you're losing fluid or that the lines carrying the fluid have been cut. Don't drive your vehicle if this is happening.

3. You See Fluid Underneath Your Car

After your car has been parked in your driveway or garage overnight, you should check underneath the car for puddles. However, the presence of a puddle could mean that you are leaking oil, power steering fluid or a range of other fluids.

If it's clear, that's a sign that it could be brake fluid. Make sure that it's not water by smelling it. Also note that older brake fluid may be brownish in colour.

4. The Master Brake Cylinder Is Wet

There is a master brake cylinder near the firewall on the driver's side of most vehicles. If possible, try to locate this cylinder. If you see unexplained liquid bubbling out of it or on the components around it, this is also a sign that you're losing brake fluid.

5. There Are Leaks Around the Flexible Hoses

The brakes are located in your wheels, and they are generally connected to the master cylinder by flexible hoses. If you can see these hoses, that's another way to check for leaks. Once you locate the hoses, gently rub your hands along them and feel for moisture.