Brake fluid is a vital part of a vehicle’s running gear that rarely gets the respect it deserves. Automotive owners are generally aware that their brakes need fluid to efficiently create braking action, but few are likely to know how low levels of brake fluid affect the vehicle’s hydraulic valves. To explain why it’s important to pay attention to the hydraulic valves of a car and why low brake fluid levels are significant to a vehicle’s safety and performance, this article covers how low brake fluid levels affect a hydraulic valves and the steps to take to ensure their safety if the brakes are low on brake fluid.
Understanding the Hydraulic Brake System
The Role of Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a specialised type of hydraulic fluid used to transfer force from the brake pedal to the braking hardware. Depress the brake pedal and the brake fluid flows through the hydraulic lines, pressing on the brake calipers or drums and hence slowing or stopping the car. This works because the fluid is incompressible — meaning the force you are applying is getting passed through the fluid (rather than getting squished) and more efficiently turned into stopping.
Components of the Hydraulic System
The hydraulic braking system consists of multiple crucial components that function to slow our movement, such as the master cylinder, brake lines, hydraulic valves and brake callipers or drums. The master cylinder produces the first level of pressure when the brake pedal is pressed and hydraulic valves make various adjustments to the pressure as it traverses through the system to the brake components.
How Low Brake Fluid Affects Hydraulic Valves
Reduced Pressure and Performance
Valves within the hydraulic braking system also depend on having enough pressure to work and regulate the distribution of brake fluid. If you run out of brake fluid, the system can no longer maintain the pressure or distribution needed to activate the hydraulic valves. It is as if you have an air brake where the pressure must be maintained to work the brakes. If the pressure drops below the proper pressure, the system will be operating with a little less power. You will feel a softer or spongy brake pedal, and you might lose some stopping power.
Increased Wear and Tear
The hydraulic valves provide controlled flow and pressure of the fluid. In the case of reduced brake fluid levels in the system, the valves will have to work a lot harder, or provide an increased amount of flow to make up for the reduced fluid volume. This additional amount of work could eventually lead to the premature wearing out of these valves, which in extreme cases can leak and fail over time. Physical wear can, in such a way, shorten the life of these hydraulic valves, and also impact the overall longevity of the hydraulic system.
Potential for Air Entrapment
If there is less than the proper amount of brake fluid in the master cylinder, air can enter the system, and air bubbles impede the flow of the fluid which may cause the brakes to take up irregularly. Even if the valving can function with erratic pressure caused by air in the system, the braking safety and feel will still be compromised. Air entrapment can lead to a spongy brake pedal and inconsistent acceleration.
Signs of Low Brake Fluid and Hydraulic Valve Issues
Brake Warning Light
Many vehicles now have a brake warning light on the dash that notifies the driver when there is a problem with the braking system. If this does come on, there may be a low brake fluid level or may be some problems with the hydraulic valves or other components. The warning should be taken seriously to deal with any problems and make sure the braking remains safe
Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal
Another is that the brake pedal feel is soft or spongy. That might suggest a low brake fluid or hydraulic valve issue: with low brake fluid, the pedal might be lower than normal, or it might not feel as firm. This symptom indicates a problem with the hydraulic system and requires attention.
Uneven Braking Performance
If you start to notice a variation in how well your brakes work – sometimes it stops fine but sometimes it doesn’t – then there might be a low level of brake fluid, or a problem with the integrity of some of the hydraulic valves. It’s worth reacting to these symptoms straightaway, because the longer you leave them it can cause more serious damage.
Addressing Low Brake Fluid and Hydraulic Valve Issues
Regular Fluid Checks
One of the simplest preventive measures you can take is making sure you check the level of your brake fluid regularly. Check how much there is, and top up if you need to. The owner manual of your car should describe exactly how to check the brake fluid and what levels you should try to maintain.
Routine Maintenance
Keeping the system in good shape by changing the brake fluids and checking the system regularly for leaks or damaged hydraulic valves is therefore important. The brake fluid must be changed regularly, which depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the braking system has to be checked everytime it is used for any parts that are leaking or damaged by corrosion and liquid. This should be done to keep the breaking system in good condition.
Professional Inspection and Repairs
If you suspect a problem with your braking system because your brakes are not working correctly due to low brake fluid in your system, such as a malfunction with hydraulic valves, this is not a DIY job for an amateur. A professional can diagnose the problems accurately, then make any necessary repairs or replacements so that your hydraulic system will work properly again.
Conclusion
The hydraulic braking systems rely on the brake fluid volumes. If brake fluid is low and eventually runsout, it can damage the hydraulic valves. Lesser fluid volumes can cause abnormal and higher operating temperatures and eventually brake fading. Therefore, it is very important to check the brake fluid levels at a regular interval, especially when the maintenance schedule comes.
Furthermore, if the fluid starts running out, the braking powerdecreases. Extra pressure needs to be applied to make the brakes function properly. There is also a high chance of air being trapped in the system due to the lesser brake fluid volume. All this can lead to compromised braking performance and even compromised safety of the user in the road.
When drivers notice low brake fluid or a brake warning light in their car, they need to drive to a garage or stop their car immediately to prevent any further damage. There are garages next to every workshop, which can offer service to the car right on the spot.
Overall, it is highly recommended for every driver to check the brake fluid level at a regular interval to avoid any unfavorable situations and to ensure safe driving. Never hesitate to take your car to the workshop for brake system care, which is essential to use a vehicle in an effective and safe manner.