NAPA Know-How: Understanding Brake Fluid and Its Role in Your Vehicle

Your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical safety components, and at the heart of that system is something you might not think about often: brake fluid. This essential yet often overlooked fluid plays a vital role in ensuring that your brakes respond effectively when you need them most.

At Witt NAPA, we believe that understanding your vehicle’s maintenance needs empowers you to keep your car running safely and smoothly.

What Is It?

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your brake pedal to the braking system, allowing your vehicle to slow down or stop. Without it, your brakes wouldn’t function properly, and stopping your car would become dangerous, if not impossible.

How Does Brake Fluid Work?

When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through the system, creating hydraulic pressure that forces the brake pads or shoes against the rotors or drums.

This friction slows the wheels and brings your vehicle to a stop. The fluid must maintain the right pressure and temperature resistance to ensure consistent braking performance.

Why Is Maintenance Important?

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to corrosion inside the brake system and reduced braking efficiency. Old or contaminated fluid can cause:

• Soft or spongy brakes – A loss of responsiveness can make stopping more difficult.
• Reduced stopping power – Contaminated fluid may lower brake performance, increasing stopping distances.
• Brake fade – When fluid absorbs too much moisture, it lowers its boiling point, leading to reduced braking ability under heavy use.
• Component damage – Corrosion and debris buildup can damage key brake components, leading to costly repairs.

How Often Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?

Most manufacturers recommend changing it every 2 to 3 years or every 30,000 to 45,000 miles, but it’s always best to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations. Signs that your brake fluid may need to be replaced include:

• Dark, dirty, or cloudy brake fluid
• A burning smell when braking
• A brake warning light on your dashboard
• A soft or unresponsive brake pedal

Choosing the Right Brake Fluid

Not all brake fluids are the same, and using the wrong type can damage your braking system. The most common types include:

• DOT 3 – A glycol-based fluid with a lower boiling point, commonly used in older vehicles.
• DOT 4 – A higher-boiling-point glycol-based fluid found in many modern cars.
• DOT 5 – A silicone-based fluid that doesn’t absorb moisture but isn’t compatible with most standard braking systems.
• DOT 5.1 – A glycol-based alternative to DOT 5 with a high boiling point, often used in high-performance vehicles.

When selecting brake fluid, always refer to your owner’s manual or ask a NAPA expert for guidance.

Get Your Brake Fluid At Witt NAPA

If you’re unsure about your brake fluid’s condition or need a top-up, visit Witt NAPA for expert advice and high-quality NAPA Know-How. We carry a full range of premium brake fluids and can help you find the right one for your vehicle.

Stop in today and keep your brakes performing at their best!