Checking Your Brake Fluid with No Hassle

Checking your brake fluid in your car can be quite simple if you know what you are looking for. It is recommended that you check your brake fluid when you check all of your other fluids in your car. First you need to find the brake master cylinder. It is underneath the hood of the car on the driver’s side of the car. It is usually toward the back of the engine compartment. The brake master cylinder is about 6×2 inches long. There is a long rectangular piece of metal with a plastic reservoir and a rubber cap on the top of it. It is nicely fitted inside of a small metal tube.

If you are still unsure on where your master cylinder is, check you owners manual. It will give you a diagram on where to find it. However, this may not be a problem for newer model cars. The reservoir may be translucent and you can see the fluid level without removing the cap. There will be a ‘full line’ that shows how much brake fluid you have in your vehicle. For cars made before 1980, the brake master cylinder reservoir may be make of all metal and you have to take off the entire top to check the fluid level. A screwdriver will help to un clamp the metal part so it can pop off, and the lid can be lifted. If you need more brake fluid, fill it up until you get to the ‘full line’. It is very important that you use the appropriate brake fluid for you car. You can find this information in you owners manual or check the top of the rubber cap. Most cars use DOT 3 or 4 brake fluid.

If there is absolutely no brake fluid in the car, the brake pedal will go completely down to the ground. If this happens, it is time to see your mechanic. Additional maintenance will be needed. The mechanic will need to bleed the brakes in addition to adding brake fluid. He will flush the brakes and refill the brake system. If you do find yourself without any brake fluid in your car at all, do not drive the car at all. It is very dangerous. If you are able to put for fluid in your car, be sure to wash your hands very well after handling the fluid. Even if you are able to put more fluid in your car, it is still always important to get your brakes checked periodically for normal wear and tear.