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Brake fluid is a vital component of your vehicle's hydraulic braking system, transferring the force from your brake pedal to the callipers and drums to ensure reliable stopping power.
Brake fluids are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the atmosphere over time, which significantly lowers the fluid's boiling point and can lead to spongy pedal feel, reduced braking efficiency, or even brake failure under heavy use.
We recommend regular hygroscopic testing using a specialist hygrometer tool to accurately measure moisture levels and assess the fluid's condition. This test is included within our service actions on the major service.
To maintain optimal safety and performance, it's recommended the brake fluid is changed every 2 years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first, preventing corrosion in the system and ensuring your brakes remain responsive when you need them most.
Spongy or soft brake pedal.
A spongy or soft brake pedal are signs of either a brake fluid leak that needs repairing, old contaminated brake fluid that requires changing or if brake components were previously replaced and the system not bled of air completely.
A leaking brake system will eventually run out of fluid and lose the brake pedal making it impossible to stop the vehicle.
Leaking brake caliper hose.
Old contaminated brake fluid.
Fresh new brake fluid.
Air bubbles in brake fluid.
Brake Dashboard Light illuminated.
The various brake warning lights on the dash are to warn of low brake fluid level, worn brake pads and sticking handbrake components.
Our brake fluid service step by step.
Inspection – We start by checking your current brake fluid for colour and moisture content using a specialist tester. Dark or contaminated fluid, or high moisture levels, confirm it’s time for a change.
Draining the old fluid – We connect a specialist brake bleeding machine to your brake fluid reservoir and a collection container to the brake caliper bleed nipples (one on each wheel). The machine pumps fresh fluid through the system while pushing the old fluid out.
Flushing the system – We continue pumping new, clean brake fluid through until it runs clear at every wheel. This removes all the old, moisture-laden fluid along with any air bubbles.
Refilling and checking – Once the system is fully flushed, we top up the reservoir with the correct specification of fresh brake fluid (as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer) and test the brake pedal feel to make sure it’s firm and responsive.
Final road test – We take the car for a short test drive to confirm everything feels right and that there are no warning lights.
The whole process usually takes around 45–60 minutes.
Contact Ellis for free Quotes, Bookings and Advice:
07576 985 389
Will always respond.
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