When it comes to vehicle maintenance, some services are non-negotiable—oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections are at the top of the list. But what about brake fluid flushes? Many drivers overlook this critical service, assuming that if their brakes are working, the fluid must be fine. However, neglecting your brake fluid can lead to costly repairs—or worse, brake failure.
In this post, we’ll dive into why brake fluid is so important, how it works, and why it needs to withstand extreme temperatures. We’ll also discuss the warning signs of contaminated or degraded fluid and why Hillside Auto Repair trusts BG Brake Fluid for superior performance. Plus, we offer a nationwide 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor for all services—because your peace of mind matters as much as your safety.
What Does Brake Fluid Actually Do?
Brake fluid is the lifeblood of your braking system. Unlike engine oil or coolant, it doesn’t get much attention—until something goes wrong. Here’s why it’s essential:
- Transfers Force: When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is sent through the brake lines, forcing the calipers to clamp the rotors. Without proper fluid, this pressure transfer weakens, leading to a spongy pedal or longer stopping distances.
- Lubricates Components: It keeps internal parts like the master cylinder and ABS modulator functioning smoothly.
- Resists Heat & Moisture: Brakes generate extreme heat (up to 500°F+ in performance driving). If the fluid boils, vapor bubbles form, causing brake fade—a terrifying loss of pedal pressure.
Why Does Brake Fluid Need to Withstand High Temperatures?
Ever notice how your brakes smell after a steep downhill drive? That’s heat buildup. Brake fluid must have a high boiling point to prevent vaporization under pressure.
There are two types of brake fluid you’ll encounter:
DOT 3 & DOT 4 (Glycol-Based): Common in most vehicles. Absorbs moisture over time, lowering its boiling point.
DOT 5 (Silicone-Based): Used in some performance or classic cars. Doesn’t absorb water but can trap moisture in the system.
Moisture is the enemy—it causes corrosion in brake lines, calipers, and master cylinders, leading to expensive repairs. That’s why manufacturers recommend flushing the system every 2 years or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Why Hillside Auto Repair Uses BG Brake Fluid
Not all fluids are created equal. While OEM brake fluid meets basic standards, BG Brake Fluid has outperformed it in multiple tests, offering:
✔ Higher boiling points for better heat resistance
✔ Advanced corrosion inhibitors to protect critical components
✔ Superior lubrication for smoother brake operation
We trust BG products because they go beyond minimum requirements—keeping your brakes responsive and reliable.
Symptoms Your Brake Fluid Needs Attention
How do you know if your fluid is past its prime? Watch for these warning signs:
🔧 Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal – Air or moisture in the system reduces hydraulic efficiency.
🔧 ABS Kicking In Unnecessarily – Contaminated fluid can cause erratic ABS behavior.
🔧 Brake Warning Light – Low fluid or pressure issues may trigger dashboard alerts.
🔧 Dark or Dirty Fluid – Fresh brake fluid is clear or amber; if it’s dark brown or black, it’s time for a flush.
🔧 Longer Stopping Distances– If your car doesn’t slow down as quickly, degraded fluid could be the culprit.
Hillside Auto Repair: Your Brake Service Experts
At Hillside Auto Repair, we don’t just top off old fluid—we perform a complete brake system flush, removing contaminated fluid and replacing it with high-quality BG Brake Fluid. Our technicians can diagnose any brake issue, whether it’s a leak, worn pads, or a failing master cylinder.
And because we stand behind our work, every service comes with a nationwide 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Drive with confidence knowing we’ve got you covered—no matter where the road takes you.