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ABS System Brake Fluid: Selection, Exchange and Supplement
ABS systems are important components of automotive braking systems, coordinating the individual wheel brakes to enable them to optimize braking efficiency. Because the system is under constant pressure, it is important to choose, exchange and add brake fluid correctly. If the wrong type of fluid is used, the system can be overstressed and performance adversely impacted. Additionally, brake fluid can become hydroscopic over time, meaning that it absorbs moisture and becomes less effective at its job. Knowing the right procedure to follow can help ensure the optimal performance of the system.
1. Know the Type of Fluid
ABS systems operate under severe pressure and will use special or designated fluids. The system is designed to be used with a particular type of brake fluid, often glycol-based or silicone-based, and the owners manual will identify the appropriate one. Utilizing a different type of fluid such as automatic transmission fluid, hydraulic fluid, motor oil or even motor oil fortified with graphite can cause system damage.
2. Degree of Absorption
In addition to the proper type of fluid, the degree of absorption rate should be selected as well. Although all brake fluids are soaked, not all are soaked equal. Some brake fluid will dilute more readily than other brake fluid, leading to further damage to the system. Generally speaking, brake fluid will dilute more readily in humid and wet climates than in dry climates.
3. Replace Brake Fluid
It is recommended that glycol-based brake fluid be replaced every two years under normal vehicle operating conditions. This will reduce the risk of any shock damage to the system due to contamination or air in the lines. Furthermore, it is recommended to change the brake fluid supply on ABS or other advanced braking systems twice as often.
Silicone-based brake fluid should be changed every three years under normal vehicle operating conditions. The level of abrasion to the braking system is also reduced when the brake fluid is suitably replaced regularly.
4. Monitor and Maintain Fluid Level
Brake fluid should be monitored and maintained properly. Generally speaking, the level of brake fluid should remain between the minimum and maximum marks pointed out in the brake fluid reservoir. If the brake fluid level drops below the minimum, the ABS system may fail. On ABS systems, there may be an additional reservoir that controls pressure or houses the ABS pump and, in this case, additional instructions may be necessary.
5. Use the Correct Procedure
When changing or adding brake fluid, it is important to follow the correct procedure. The vehicles hood must be latched and the parking brake applied. The reservoir cap must also be removed, and the vehicle should be positioned level and on a flat surface.
The brake fluid should then be drained from the reservoir. A new filter should then be installed and a new can of brake fluid opened. With the vehicle still parked, the reservoir should now be filled with the new brake fluid, carefully not to overfill.
The system should be thoroughly checked for leaks and a test drive should be taken to make sure the system is operating correctly.
Using the wrong type of brake fluid, operating the system without enough fluid, or not replacing the fluid as recommended, can lead to a less efficient breaking system and reduce the life span of the vehicle. Selecting, exchanging and supplementing the brake fluid are all important steps to ensuring that the ABS system performs properly over time. Adhering to the correct procedures when selecting, exchanging or supplementing brake fluid can help ensure that the ABS system performs at maximum efficiency.
