With summer temperatures soaring, it’s crucial to understand how heat affects your vehicle. One vehicle component affected by extreme heat is your vehicle’s brake fluid and braking system. The performance and safety of your vehicle largely depend on the condition of these components, especially during the hot summer months or in regions with high temperatures. In this month’s blog, we examine how heat impacts your brake fluid and brakes, and what you can do to maintain optimal performance through proper brake fluid care.
The Role of Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your brake pedal to the brake pads, enabling your vehicle to stop. It operates under high pressure and temperature conditions, making its quality and condition vital for safe driving. There are different types of brake fluids, such as DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5, each with varying boiling points and properties.
How Heat Affects Brake Fluid
- Boiling Point: Brake fluid has a specific boiling point, which is the temperature at which it starts to vaporize. When brake fluid boils, it forms gas bubbles, leading to a spongy brake pedal and reduced braking efficiency. High temperatures can cause the brake fluid to reach its boiling point more quickly, especially if the fluid is old or contaminated.
- Moisture Absorption: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid, making it more susceptible to boiling under high temperatures. Regularly changing your brake fluid can help mitigate this issue.
- Degradation: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can degrade the brake fluid, reducing its effectiveness. This degradation can lead to corrosion within the braking system, causing further damage and potentially expensive repairs.
Heat Impact on Brakes
- Brake Fade: When brakes are subjected to excessive heat, they can experience brake fade. This occurs when the brake pads and rotors overheat, reducing their ability to generate friction and slowing down the vehicle. Brake fade can be dangerous, especially during long descents or heavy braking situations.
- Warped Rotors: High temperatures can cause the brake rotors to warp. Warped rotors lead to uneven braking, vibrations, and reduced stopping power. This not only affects your vehicle’s performance but also compromises safety.
- Pad Wear: Heat accelerates the wear and tear of brake pads. Worn-out brake pads can lead to metal-on-metal contact, damaging the rotors and increasing the risk of brake failure.
Preventive Measures
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and replace your brake fluid according to your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. This helps maintain the fluid’s boiling point and prevents moisture buildup.
- Quality Brake Fluid: Use high-quality brake fluid with a higher boiling point, especially if you live in a hot climate or frequently drive in mountainous areas. DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 fluids generally have higher boiling points than DOT 3.
- Brake Inspections: Have your brakes inspected regularly by a service professional. They can check for signs of wear, overheating, and other issues that could compromise your braking system.
- Driving Habits: Adopt driving habits that reduce brake stress. Avoid riding the brakes, use engine braking when possible, and allow your brakes to cool down during long descents.
Understanding the impact of heat on your vehicle’s brake fluid and brakes is essential for maintaining safety and performance. Regular maintenance, using quality brake fluid, and adopting good driving habits can help ensure your braking system remains in top condition, even under high-temperature conditions. Stay proactive and keep your vehicle’s brakes in check to enjoy a safe and smooth driving experience. If you would like your brakes inspected, contact the service professionals at Best Western Transmission to schedule an appointment.