Ensuring Brake Safety: The Importance of Brake Fluid Maintenance

Oceanside Motorsports • September 8, 2023

From safety to performance, and from preserving your investment to ensuring a smooth driving experience, understanding the significance of brake fluid in your BMW will underscore the need for regular inspections and maintenance. Let’s dive into the world of brake fluid and uncover the reasons why it deserves your attention as a BMW owner.

Checking the brake fluid in a BMW, as well as in any other vehicle, is an essential maintenance task that ensures the safety and proper functioning of your car’s braking system. Here are some reasons why brake fluid checks are important in a BMW:

  • Safety

The most crucial reason for checking brake fluid is safety. Brake fluid is a vital component of the braking system, as it transmits the force applied to the brake pedal to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, which then press the brake pads or shoes against the brake rotors or drums to stop the vehicle. If your brake fluid is low or contaminated, it can result in decreased braking performance and potentially lead to accidents.

  •   Maintaining Braking Performance

Brake fluid plays a significant role in maintaining optimal braking performance. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air, which can lead to a decrease in its boiling point. This can result in brake fade, where the brakes become less effective under heavy braking, potentially causing longer stopping distances.

  • Preventing Brake System Damage

Brake fluid also acts as a lubricant for various components within the braking system. Low or contaminated brake fluid can lead to increased friction and wear on these components, such as the master cylinder, calipers, and wheel cylinders. Regular checks and maintenance can help prevent costly repairs to these parts.

Brake Fluid Flushing

BMW, like many other automakers, recommends a brake fluid flush and replacement at specific intervals rather than based solely on mileage. The recommended brake fluid change interval for BMW vehicles can vary depending on the model and year, but it’s typically suggested every two years or 30,000 mileages. This service helps in moisture absorption, contaminant removal and maintaining the brake performance.

In summary, checking and maintaining the brake fluid in your BMW is crucial for safety, performance, and the longevity of your vehicle’s braking system. Regular checks and timely replacements or flushes, as recommended by the manufacturer, can help you enjoy a safe and trouble-free driving experience.

For over 12 years, Oceanside Motorsports has been an Oceanside staple helping you get back on the road faster than the dealer can. Some of our services include brake fluid flushing, oil change, steering and suspension, transmission repair and tune-ups. We have continuously trained technicians and offer lifetime warranty on most repairs. With our Time Saver Service, we can get your car and deliver it to your doorstep once fixed. We can even help arrange towing if needed. You can also have our loaner cars for just $10 per day while your car is serviced. You’ll get used to expecting quick, simple, and dependable auto repairs from Oceanside Motorsports!

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