Brake Problems     Brake Fluid        ABS      Brake Pad Materials

BRAKE FLUID is very hydroscopic, it absorbs the moisture out of the air like a sponge. When moisture mixes with brake fluid it creates a caustic acid and lowers the fluid boiling point. The acid will rust or corrode metal brake parts and dirt and debris that flakes off can wreak havoc on the Anti-lock Brake System. A lower boiling point can result in the moisture boiling off after heavy braking, especially on a very hot day and creates air in the system which will cause diminished braking ability.
Brake systems should be flushed and refilled every 3 years on non ABS systems and every 2 years with ABS. Never use brake fluid out of a container that has been left open to the air for a long period. Be very careful to never allow oil of any kind to get in the brake system as it will ruin all of the rubber components in the brake system.

 Stepping on the brake pedal, the brake master cylinder transforms mechanical force into hydraulic pressure. Being non-compressible, brake fluid is responsible for transferring hydraulic pressure through brake lines and hoses down to the brake components and ABS system. Moisture is the hydraulic system's biggest enemy. Moisture enters the system through minute holes, or pores, in the rubber brake seals, as well as when the master cylinder cap is removed. Research has confirmed that, on average, 2% moisture is absorbed by brake fluid on an annual basis. Now consider what happens to brake fluid after use over a period of time. At a rate of 2% per year, the boiling point of DOT 3 can drop over 9% the first year, and nearly 20% after two years.

Being non-compressible, brake fluid acts as a “solid” link between the master cylinder and brake assemblies. With high braking temperatures and a low boiling point, brake fluid may boil and produce vapor in the system. If this occurs, the solid link is broken, as a vapor will compress. A driver applying the brake in this condition would experience a spongy, unresponsive pedal.

Another important characteristic of DOT 3 fluid is that it is non-corrosive to internal parts. Corrosion inhibitors are used in the make up of brake fluid and aid in the protection of the internal surfaces. Over time, these inhibitors break down and can no longer protect the internal surfaces adequately. Depleted corrosion inhibitors allow brake fluid to attack the system. Worn surfaces produce a degree of copper and other particulates that can collect in ABS solenoids and motor valves causing them to malfunction. This unit can be very costly to repair.