Brake system, part of car hydraulic system, is one of the most important elements which must work properly and must be inspected regularly. You need to pay attention even to the smallest details to ensure optimal and proper car operation and avoid costly brake repairs. Brakes are essential safety feature and must always be in the best condition including all other elements of brake system such as brake discs, brake pads, brake fluid, etc. Car brake service is imperative and must be done periodically by an experienced and highly trained technician. In addition, regular brake fluid checks are recommended. This is a simple thing to do if you follow few steps.

First you need to find the brake fluid reservoir which is usually located on the drivers side. On it you’ll find the max and min lines which will help you know whether you should fill in brake fluid or replace it with a new one. If there isn’t enough fluid, add the type of fluid specified on the cap (DOT 3, 4, 5). Due to the moisture dilution, the brake fluid weakens over time and its effectiveness drops which can causes braking system components to corrode. The important thing to remember is that you can only use the DOT specified in your owner’s manual. For some car models which require DOT 3, you can use DOT 4 and DOT 5, but never the other way around. Once you’ve added the brake fluid, clean excess fluid around the reservoir as it can ruin your paint job. In case brake fluid level is over max line, get the extra liquid with a syringe.

If the brake level is low, make sure you inspect brake pads as well. With time they wear out due to the constant pressure applied to the brake pedal. This is also true for brake discs. Make sure you have them inspected regularly or as soon as your car starts producing weird screeching noise. Your car may be in need of brake disc machining. Consult a mechanic specializing in servicing brake repairs. Also, check brake lines and calipers as brake fluid drops, air gets into the reservoir and eventually into the brake lines which can damage them. That is why brake fluid must be at recommended level at all times.

You can also check the level and condition of brake fluid using chemical test strip that are dipped directly into the fluid. This strips test for copper level in the brake fluid. If the level is higher than expected, it is more likely for the inhibitors to be worn out. Another car brake service tool you can use is an optical refractometer. It checks the moisture present in the brake fluid. If there is a high level of moisture present, there are greater chances for braking system components to corrode. Car brake service mechanics also use electronic testers to evaluate the boiling point of brake fluid. The best boiling point for DOT 3 is 401 degrees Fahrenheit or 205 degrees Celsius and the wet point should be 284 degrees. Whereas in DOT 4, fluid should be boiled to 446 degrees dry and 311 degrees wet. But leave such testing to professionals and use simple ways to inspect the condition of the brake fluid such as its color. The normal color of the fluid should be light brown. If not the case, then further thorough car brake service needs to be done.

Here is a video with useful information for the brake disk machining and breaking system.