Brakes
Brake Fluid — Why Regular Changes Are Critical
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its boiling point and can lead to brake failure under heavy use.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. Over time, this water content lowers the boiling point of the fluid. Under heavy or repeated braking — such as descending a long hill with a loaded van — the fluid can boil, creating vapour bubbles in the brake lines. This causes a soft or spongy brake pedal and, in extreme cases, complete brake failure. Most manufacturers recommend changing brake fluid every two years regardless of mileage. A simple moisture test can determine if the fluid is still within safe limits.
Key takeaways
- Brake fluid absorbs moisture and loses its effectiveness over time
- Old fluid can boil under heavy braking, causing a spongy pedal
- Change brake fluid every two years as part of routine maintenance
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