What is Brake Fluid? Its Function and How It Works
Brake fluid is another term for brake oil. This component plays an important role in the performance of the braking system. In addition, this component has other functions that will be explained in the following review.
What is Brake Fluid?
Before you learn about the functions of brake fluid, you need to know what brake fluid actually is. As previously explained, brake fluid is another term for brake oil.
This brake fluid component is very important for the successful functioning of the braking system. Because this component has a special formula so that the braking force produced by the brake pedal meets expectations, brake fluid is cohesive. Its presence cannot be replaced by other liquids.
Therefore, when choosing brake fluid or brake oil, do not be careless. Choose quality brake fluid; if you are still confused about which quality brake fluid or brake oil to choose, you can check the recommendations here.
Functions of Brake Fluid
There are several functions of brake fluid that you need to know. Here are the complete functions.
1. Cleans dirt attached to the braking system
Brake fluid functions as a cleaning liquid for dirt or dust that sticks to the car's braking components. This dirt will later be removed by the brake fluid, making the car's braking system clean and functioning well.
2. Acts as a lubricant for braking system components
In the braking system, there are several components that will rub against each other when the brake pedal is pressed. If these components are not lubricated properly, they will wear out quickly. Brake fluid here serves to reduce that friction, so the components in the car's braking system do not wear out easily.
3. Can withstand heat and maintain temperature
When you brake suddenly while turning, it can cause friction between the braking components. This friction generates heat, so a liquid is needed to cool it down.
If not, the braking function cannot work properly. To dampen that heat, brake fluid is needed because this liquid is cohesive (can withstand heat and keep the temperature cool).
4. Balances pressure
Brake fluid can balance the pressure in all components of the braking system when the car brakes. Thus, when braking, all wheels of the car stop simultaneously.
Read Also: Negative Effects When Brake Oil Mixes with Water
How Brake Fluid Works
Brake fluid has its own way of working. For more details, pay attention to the following review.
The way brake fluid works occurs when you start braking the car. When the car is braked, friction is created between the disc and the brake pads. This friction is created due to the collaboration of the master with the piston.
This friction generates heat that is useful for stopping the wheel's motion according to the pressure applied by the drum. Excessive heat can disrupt the function of the braking system. Because it accelerates the friction of metal and disc, causing the braking system components to wear out quickly.
Here, brake fluid works as a lubricant, which will reduce excessive friction so that the temperature from that friction does not get too hot.
Thus, the components of the braking system do not wear out easily. The surfaces between the braking system components become smoother, so the pressure becomes more balanced. As a result, the wheels will stop simultaneously with the right stopping time. This way, your car's braking system can work well.
Read Also: Understanding the Principles and How Car Brakes Work
The Right Time to Change Brake Fluid
To ensure the car's braking system functions well, you need to know the right time to change the brake fluid. It is advisable to change the brake fluid regularly and periodically.
You can change it when your car's mileage reaches 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Don't forget to use the best quality brake fluid when making the change. You can get the best products at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.
