Apr 30, 2025

The brake fluid in your vehicle is used to translate the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to an equivalent amount of power applied to the brakes to stop or slow down your car. When your fluid is old or too low, your vehicle will not stop as quickly, which could lead to performance issues on the road. For ideal performance, schedule routine brake service at your Acura dealership. 

Ensure Optimal Stopping Power with Acura Brake Fluid Exchange

Most often, you will need to schedule a service to enhance the fluid in your brake system every few years. For average drivers, service every three years or 45,000 miles is adequate. However, if you have a habit of riding your brakes or you drive in bumper-to-bumper traffic, you may need to schedule brake service every other year to ensure your brake system is ready for the road.



Why Do You Need a Fluid Exchange?

Although the fluid in your brake system is sealed and self-contained, it can become dirty simply from being used over several thousand miles. Dirty fluid will not correctly translate the amount of brake pressure from the pedal to the brakes. It’s also sometimes the case that excess moisture entering the fluid line of your brake system can throw off the chemistry of your vehicle’s fluid, which can cause performance issues.



What Are Signs of Brake System Issues?

When your brake system encounters issues related to fluid levels, it’s common for the dashboard indicator warning light for your vehicle’s anti-lock braking system to turn on. You should book brake service as soon as this light turns on, since it might not be safe to drive on the road when the brake system is having performance issues.


Sometimes, the first sign of brake issues may be the feel of a hard or soft brake pedal. A soft brake pedal that feels squishy or spongy when the brakes are applied is usually a sign of low fluid. You may also notice a burning smell if your brakes are overheating, or you may hear your brakes squealing when the brake pads are thinning.



What Happens During Brake Service at Your Acura Dealership?

During your brake service appointment, an Acura mechanic will start with a visual inspection of all brake components, from the fluid level to the pads and rotors. Any parts that appear old or worn out will be replaced, such as when brake pads are thinning. The next step will be to drain old fluid out of your brake system and replace it with new fluid that meets the performance standards for your vehicle. 


The brake system is your vehicle’s first line of safety on the road, so it’s essential to book service as soon as you notice brake performance problems. Contact Ed Martin Acura in Indianapolis, IN to schedule a fluid exchange today.