How to Check Brake Fluid

When you’re cruising around Seattle in your BMW vehicle, you have the brakes to thank for the high-end performance, so how can you ensure that they’re operating correctly? You’ll need to check the brake fluid at least once a year to see if the color is almost clear with a yellow tint. If the brake fluid in your car has this color, then this hydraulic fluid will continue to help the brake pedal move properly as well as lubricate the overall system and even prevent it from corroding. Follow along as the service team at BMW Seattle shows you how to check brake fluid and discusses its importance more below! 

Check Brake Fluid in 3 Steps

Similar to other car maintenance that you’ll have to do, you should check the brake fluid every time you get an oil change in your BMW or at the very least, check it once every year. It won’t take away much time from your busy schedule in Bellevue as it only involves these 3 steps: 

1. Find the brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder under the hood. If you’re unsure where your BMW brake fluid reservoir location is, consult with your owner’s manual for the exact location.
2. When you look at the outside of the reservoir, you should see “minimum” and “maximum” lines. Check the brake fluid using these lines as a guide. If the brake fluid is closer to the minimum line, then you’ll need a BMW brake fluid change.
3. Also, see what color is the brake fluid. If it’s dark brown or black and looks more like oil, then you’ll need a brake fluid flush. Dark oil-like brake fluid has dirt and debris that is picked up over time, which can prevent your brakes from performing at their best if they are left unattended.

While checking the brake fluid in a timely manner helps with knowing when your car needs brake services, the BMW brake fluid light is also there to signal you any issues. This warning light will come on to remind you that it is time for a BMW brake fluid change or another service. 

Why is BMW Brake Fluid Change Important? 

It’s important because it will affect your car’s performance on the Lynnwood roads.

Specifically, the following is what will happen if BMW brake fluid changes aren’t performed when they’re needed: 

• Brake fluid attracts moisture, which can cause corrosion on your brakes over time. 
• When brake fluid ages, it becomes contaminated with small particles, such as dirt and debris that we have mentioned earlier, that can damage brake-related systems. 
• Systems like ABS and traction control generate heat when they activate, which can shorten the lifespan of your brake fluid.

On average, brake fluid can last anywhere from four to five years though other factors, including the model as well as your driving habits and conditions, will affect the lifespan. However, since you now have the instructions on how to check brake fluid under your belt, you’ll know when a replacement is needed. Plus, you’ll also have your BMW brake fluid light as more reinforcements!

BMW Brake Fluid Change & More in Seattle 

Whether you’re having trouble spotting your BMW brake fluid reservoir location or your BMW brake fluid light came on, turn to the experienced service technicians at BMW Seattle! We know every inch of BMW vehicles while being able to service all makes as well. For years, we have been specializing in luxury car services in the area, so we can help you with any brake issues and get you back to enjoying your car at its peak performance soon! Schedule an appointment with us and be sure to browse our specials.

Learn More About Luxury Car Services from BMW Seattle

If you have any questions about any car services, feel free to reach out to us today and we are more than happy to help you out!