Brake Treatment Starts With Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is an integral part of braking in a hydraulic system, which uses pressure to move automotive brake fluid down the brake line to stop your car. No fluid means no pressure, and that means no braking. Car brake fluid is often overlooked unless there is a problem, in which case it could be too late. Knowing when and how to check auto brake fluid can keep you safe on the road. To check the level and condition of your brake fluid, locate the reservoir under the hood, which usually sits on top of the master cylinder. Most brake fluid reservoirs are clearly marked with min and max fill lines, and are translucent so you can see the fluid level without opening the cap.
Having the right amount of quality truck brake fluid in your vehicle prevents brake fade and vapor lock, ensures smooth and consistent brake pedal feel for optimal control, minimizes corrosion by stopping moisture absorption, and extends the lifespan of brake system components. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water. If the water content in brake fluid gets too high, it might boil under heavy braking, which causes less effective stopping power and a spongy brake pedal. When it comes to shopping for brake fluid, the NAPA experts recommend going with a product that offers a high boiling point for reliable brake performance in extreme conditions.
Brake fluid can become contaminated with rust. New brake fluid should be clear and light amber in color. If a quick visual inspection reveals dark, rusty or even inky fluid, it is time for a change. Regardless of which brake flush method you choose, the goal is to replace as much old fluid as possible. There is no difference between a brake fluid change versus a brake flush. It is important to only use the DOT brake fluid specified for your vehicle that utilizes disc brakes or a drum brake or anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Stay In Control With Power Steering Fluid
There's another hydraulic system controlled by circulating fluids and pressure, which gives your steering wheel the ability to properly turn without resistance. While a lot of modern vehicles use electric power steering, plenty of cars on the road still use a belt-operated pump that requires automotive power steering fluid. A flush of heavy-duty truck power steering fluid is needed once every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Many vehicles built after 2006 use synthetic based fluids for longer life and better protection. NAPA Auto Parts sells car power steering fluid from top brands like Lucas Oil, Permatex, CRC, Prestone, Valvoline and more.
Maintaining proper fluid levels protects against pump failure from clogs, reduces friction and wear that causes premature damage to power steering components, provides smooth and effortless steering, and ensures optimal power steering performance. Your vehicle might be due for an auto power steering fluid flush if you feel the wheel resisting movement, or you hear shrill or squealing noises during turning. Also, fluid discoloration indicates the solution is burnt beyond use, which means it is time for a fluid change. The darker steering fluid looks, the closer it is to being spent. The NAPA experts recommend power steering fluid that includes a stop leak solution designed to address and prevent power steering fluid leaks in your vehicle.
Hydraulic Fluid For Heavy-Duty Vehicles
High-quality automotive fluids for heavy-duty vehicles are critical for maintaining a hard-working fleet. Manual transmissions depend on mechanical and hydraulic systems to function, involving gears and clutch fluid. When you step on the clutch pedal, hydraulic pressure disengages the clutch plate and allows you to smoothly select a new gear. If your truck clutch fluid is low, you may notice vibrations or a shuddering resistance when you try to shift. This puts excessive stress on the mechanical components, and can require extensive repairs if not addressed. You may also notice sluggish or unresponsive gear shifting, known as gear slippage, as the clutch fails to engage or disengage due to a lack of hydraulic pressure. This either causes a delayed response or sticks you in neutral.
Luckily, clutch fluid for trucks is the easiest solution to check and remedy, assuming there's no leak. In all-wheel-drive vehicles, clutch fluid should be replaced every 20,000 miles. Our experts recommend buying fluid for clutches that deliver exceptional heat resistance and excellent lubrication properties. NAPA oils and chemicals are built with superior quality, and designed with input from industry technicians. NAPA products are affordable, high-performing and dependable, even in the harshest of work environments.
