Brake fluid is a vital component of your vehicle’s braking system, transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers. Over time, this fluid can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness and compromising your car’s ability to stop safely. Below, we discuss the signs that a fluid flush is due. When you need a brake fluid flush in San Rafael, CA, don’t delay a visit to Auto Repair Specialist.

What Is a Brake Fluid Flush?

A brake fluid flush involves draining old, contaminated fluid from your braking system and replacing it with fresh fluid. This process removes moisture, air bubbles, and debris that can accumulate in the fluid over time. Clean brake fluid ensures a responsive and reliable braking system, helping prevent brake failure and extending the life of key components like calipers and master cylinders.

Signs Your Car Needs a Brake Fluid Flush

Spongy Brake Pedal

If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when pressed, it could indicate moisture or air in the brake lines, which reduces the fluid's ability to transmit pressure effectively.

Delayed Braking Response

A noticeable delay in braking performance is often a sign of degraded fluid. Contaminated brake fluid cannot build pressure quickly, leading to slower stopping times.

Discolored Brake Fluid

Brake fluid should be clear or light amber. If it appears dark or murky when checked, it’s a sign that the fluid has deteriorated and needs to be replaced.

ABS Warning Light

The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) relies on proper fluid pressure to function. If the ABS light illuminates on your dashboard, it may indicate a problem with the brake fluid.

Burning Smell

A burning odor while braking could result from overheating fluid, a sign it’s time for a flush to restore the system’s cooling and hydraulic efficiency.

Brake Repair in San Rafael

Act quickly if you believe your car is suffering from any form of brake trouble. Common signs of an issue include a soft or spongy brake pedal, a grinding noise when braking, or the illumination of the ABS dashboard light. When you visit us for a brake job we can perform brake pad replacement, brake rotor replacement, brake master cylinder repair, or other services. Call us at (415) 612-3933  to request an estimate for a brake fluid flush in San Rafael.