Posted on 12/19/2025
Brake fluid sits out of sight, so it is easy to forget about it. As long as the pedal feels firm and the car stops, most drivers assume everything is fine. The reality is that brake fluid slowly absorbs moisture, and that hidden water can soften pedal feel, lengthen stopping distances, and quietly corrode expensive brake parts over time. What Brake Fluid Really Does Brake fluid is the hydraulic link between your foot and the brake pads. When you press the pedal, the master cylinder pushes fluid through lines and hoses to each wheel, and that pressure clamps the pads or shoes against the rotors or drums. Because the fluid does not compress, the brakes can react quickly and predictably every time you slow down. The same fluid also lubricates seals and helps keep rust away inside the master cylinder, ABS unit, and calipers. Once the fluid is old and contaminated, it cannot protect those parts the way it should. Why Brake Fluid Absorbs Moisture Most ... read more