What Color is Brake Fluid When It’s New?

If you’re new to vehicle ownership, there are lots of maintenance items to familiarize yourself with in order to have successful trips around Apex. For example, there’s a long list of fluids your car needs to run, and they all have a unique color to easily identify them. For instance, what color is brake fluid? When it’s fresh, brake fluid is see-through with a yellowish or amber colored tint. Over time, the fluid ages to a dark brown or black color, at which point it should be replaced. Keep reading with the Hendrick Dodge Cary service team to learn more about brake fluid and how to check it for color and quality. 

What Does Brake Fluid Do? 

Clean brake fluid is necessary to help your vehicle’s brakes operate safely. It acts as a lubricant protecting the brake system from corrosion, and makes it easier for you to press down on the brake pedal. A certain level of brake fluid should be maintained at all times. If it gets too low, or if the fluid becomes muddled with contaminants, your brakes can’t operate at peak performance and your safety could be at risk on Carrboro roads. This is why it’s crucial to inspect the brake fluid regularly, whether you do it yourself or bring your car to a service center. 

How to Check Brake Fluid on Your Own

If you already know how to check your engine oil level, checking the brake fluid is just as simple! If not, no need to worry. We’ve got easy-to-follow instructions below! In addition to assessing the fluid level, you should also consider this important question: what does the brake fluid look like? Remember, if it looks clear and has a yellowish amber color, then the quality is still okay. If it’s no longer clear or has taken on a dirty appearance, it’s time for a fluid flush and replacement! 

1. Your car should be off when you check the brake fluid. Pop the hood and locate the master cylinder underneath. Once you’ve found the master cylinder, you should also see the brake fluid reservoir. If you’re not yet familiar with the layout under the hood, your owner’s manual should help. 
2. The brake fluid reservoir has minimum and maximum lines to indicate the proper level. If the brake fluid sits in the middle of the lines, you’re good to go. If it falls beneath the minimum line, your fluid is low and needs replenishing. 
3. Don’t forget: what does the brake fluid look like? If it’s dark or has an oily touch, you need to have it changed. 

What is the color of your brake fluid? If it’s dark, you should schedule a service appointment to have it replaced soon. If the color looks okay but the level is low and you think there could be a leak, you should also come in for service as soon as possible. 

Don’t Skip Brake Maintenance, Visit Hendrick Dodge Cary

Our team wants to help you travel safely in Chapel Hill. If you have additional questions about brake maintenance, such as how long brakes should last or how much brake pads cost, we’re here to provide trusted answers. Contact us at your convenience to start a conversation with a friendly advisor!