Over time, cars have become more and more sophisticated, but the basic principles of their operation have remained unchanged for decades.
The main function of brake fluid is to transmit the force from the brake pedal further along the hydraulic circuits of the brake actuator. Under the pressure created in the master cylinder, it passes through pipes to each wheel of the car and acts on the pistons or wheel cylinders, which activate the brake pads, pressing them against the brake discs - and the car slows or stops. The brake fluid also acts as a lubricant for the brake parts, providing corrosion protection and reducing friction.
Failure to replace or top up brake fluid regularly can lead to brake system failure and other emergencies.
Think about why and how often you need to change your brake fluid?
Brake fluid is a composition of a certain consistency with additives. When you drive the car and press the brake pedal, the fluid heats up to a certain temperature, which must be lower than the boiling point. The boiling point of most brands of fluid is up to 260°C. At the same time, during city driving, the heating temperature reaches an average of 150 ° C, and in a more aggressive driving style - up to 180 ° C.
As the brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and the boiling point of water is correspondingly lower, therefore the boiling point of the fluid itself is reduced. During boiling, air bubbles form, resulting in insufficient pressure in the system and brake pedal failure. Brake fluid additives also lose their properties over time.
Brake fluid change frequency
Brake fluid change is regulated by the manufacturer. As a rule, the replacement period in normal vehicle operation is 1 every 2 years. In this case it is necessary to monitor the condition of the fluid. Visually, this can be done by color - if the color differs from the new brake fluid of the same brand, then you will need to replace it.
You can more accurately determine brake fluid in an auto repair shop using special diagnostic equipment. The essence of the test is to heat the fluid and determine the current boiling point. If the boiling point is less than the minimum allowable value (165°C), change it.
Brake fluid requirements
Among the basic requirements for brake fluid, the following can be noted:
High boiling point.
Low freezing point (especially when operating a vehicle in northern areas of the country).
The minimum level of hygroscopicity.
In addition, brake fluid additives must have good corrosion protection properties.
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