How To Check Brake Fluid: 9 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Home » Where Is Brake Fluid Located » How To Check Brake Fluid: 9 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Check Brake Fluid PDF download Download Article Co-authored by Ed Beery

Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Fact Checked

PDF download Download Article
  • Checking the Brake Fluid Level
    • |
  • Checking the Brake Fluid Condition
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Ed Beery. Ed Beery is an Automotive Specialist and the Owner of InTechgrity Automotive Excellence based in Denver, Colorado. With more than eight years of experience, he specializes in providing maintenance and repair services for both individuals and companies. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 404,461 times.

Your car's brake system is one of several automotive hydraulic systems. When you push down on the brake pedal, fluid is delivered through the brake lines from the master cylinder to the brake drums or discs, slowing the car through friction. To make the system work properly, you need to have enough brake fluid in the system, and it needs to be in good enough condition to do its job.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 2:

Checking the Brake Fluid Level

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Open the car's hood. 1 Open the car's hood.[1] It's best to do this when the car is stopped on a level surface, with the engine cold.
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Check Brake Fluid 2 Look for the master cylinder. On most cars, the master cylinder is located at the back of the engine bay, on the driver's side. There's a reservoir above the cylinder itself.[2] Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Check the fluid level in the reservoir. 3 Check the fluid level in the reservoir.[3] On most newer cars, the reservoir is transparent, with lines marked "Min" and "Max"; the brake fluid level should fall between these lines. Cars older than the 1980s may have metal reservoirs, requiring you to remove the reservoir cap. (Newer caps screw on and off, while some older caps need to be pried off with a screwdriver.)
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Check Brake Fluid 4 Add brake fluid to the reservoir if required. Pour the fluid carefully into the reservoir, wiping up any spills, as brake fluid is toxic and corrosive.[4]
    • Use only the brake fluid with the DOT specification recommended in your owner's manual. There are three main specifications: DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5, each having its own properties. It is possible to use DOT 4 brake fluid in some cars that call for DOT 3 fluid, but never the reverse, and DOT 5 brake fluid can be used only in cars that call for that specification. Note that most cars indicate the required brake fluid DOT at the reservoir cap.
    • This is also a good time to check how well the reservoir cap seals.
  5. Watermark wikiHow to Check Brake Fluid 5 Replace the reservoir cap and close the hood.[5]
    • If the brake fluid level is significantly below the "Min" or "Add" line, you should have your brakes inspected for excessive wear. As brake pads wear down, brake fluid can channel itself out of the brake lines into the calipers.[6]
    • It is also possible to have the brake fluid reservoir full and not have the brake fluid reaching the master cylinder. If your brakes feel spongy even with the reservoir full, take your car to a mechanic.
    6. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 2:

Checking the Brake Fluid Condition

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Check the brake fluid color. 1 Check the brake fluid color. Normally, brake fluid is brown. If the fluid looks dark or black, it may need to be replaced but further testing is needed.[7] [8]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Check Brake Fluid 2 Dip a chemical test strip into the fluid.[9] As brake fluid ages, its corrosion inhibitors break down. Test strips check the presence of copper in the brake fluid; the higher the level, the more worn out the inhibitors are. One such test strip is Phoenix Systems' "Brake Strip Brake Fluid Test Strip"
  3. Step 3 Test for moisture content with an optical refractometer. 3 Test for moisture content with an optical refractometer.[10] Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means that over time, it absorbs moisture from its surroundings. Moisture dilutes and weakens the effectiveness of brake fluid, which leads to braking systems components to corrode. In 18 months, brake fluid can have up to 3 percent water, which can lower its boiling point from 40 to 50 percent.
  4. Step 4 Evaluate the brake fluid's boiling point with an electronic tester. 4 Evaluate the brake fluid's boiling point with an electronic tester. New DOT 3 specification brake fluid is to have a dry boiling point of 401 degrees Fahrenheit (205 degrees Celsius) and a wet boiling point of 284 degrees (140 degrees Celsius), while DOT 4 fluid is to boil at 446 degrees (230 degrees Celsius) dry and 311 degrees (155 degrees Celsius) wet. The lower the point at which the brake fluid boils, the less effective it is.
    • Your mechanic should have both an optical refractometer and electronic brake fluid tester to perform these tests for you as part of an automotive checkup.
    5. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question My brakes don't squeal but my pedal goes to the floor. What is the issue? Community Answer Community Answer You may have bad linkage or the brake fluid may be low on a more modern car. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 8
  • Question Should the engine be hot or cold when I'm checking the brake fluid? Community Answer Community Answer It doesn't matter, although you might feel more comfortable if the engine is cold. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 17
  • Question What color should the brake fluid be? Logic Johnson Lafontaine Logic Johnson Lafontaine Top Answerer If it's new, it can be clear or amber. As it gets older, it will turn closer to brown. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 4 Helpful 11
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • Most manufacturers specify times for when brake fluid should be replaced. Check your owner's manual for information specific to your make and model. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 3
  • One reason your brake fluid may be bad involves moisture. Brake fluid is hygroscopic - this means it absorbs moisture - from the breather hole in the master cylinder reservoir cap, from the rubber hoses, and possibly from the "new" bottle of brake fluid if the cap hasn't been kept on it. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 3
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • In addition to seeing your brake or ABS warning light come on, if your brake pedal feels too hard or spongy, goes down too far, makes noise, drags or pulsates, or if your car pulls to one side or gives off a burning smell while braking, take the car in for servicing. Thanks Helpful 24 Not Helpful 17
Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • Bottle of brake fluid
  • Funnel (optional)
  • Rag or paper towel

You Might Also Like

Refill Brake FluidHow toRefill Brake Fluid Brake Fluid FlushThe Best Way to Flush the Brake Lines on Your Vehicle Get Air Out of Brake Lines Without BleedingAir in Your Brake Lines: Why They Need to Be Bled & 4 Common Methods Check the Fluids in a CarHow toCheck the Fluids in a Car Bleed Brake LinesHow toBleed Brake Lines Service BrakesHow toService Brakes Add Brake Fluid to the Clutch Master CylinderHow toAdd Brake Fluid to the Clutch Master Cylinder Bleed Car BrakesHow toBleed Car Brakes Troubleshoot Your BrakesHow toTroubleshoot Your Brakes Fix a Brake Fluid LeakHow toFix a Brake Fluid Leak Check Clutch Fluid LevelHow toCheck Clutch Fluid Level Check and Add Radiator FluidHow to Check Coolant Level & Add Coolant To Your Car Replace a Master CylinderHow toReplace a Master Cylinder Change Brake LinesHow toChange Brake Lines Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/maintaining-your-vehicle
  2. ↑ Ed Beery. Automotive Specialist. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEWR_sYcULg
  4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoaCAvthKZs
  5. ↑ https://youtu.be/UEWR_sYcULg?t=89
  6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o29lPbQYPog&t=28s
  7. ↑ Ed Beery. Automotive Specialist. Expert Interview
  8. ↑ https://www.bothellwa.gov/592/Vehicle-Leaks
  9. ↑ https://www.bothellwa.gov/592/Vehicle-Leaks
More References (4)
  1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVHRpBn-yaA
  2. Videos provided by Jon Olson
  3. [1]
  4. [2]

About This Article

Ed Beery Co-authored by: Ed Beery Automotive Specialist This article was co-authored by Ed Beery. Ed Beery is an Automotive Specialist and the Owner of InTechgrity Automotive Excellence based in Denver, Colorado. With more than eight years of experience, he specializes in providing maintenance and repair services for both individuals and companies. Ed and the InTechgrity Automotive Excellence Team are approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA) for repairs and are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. This article has been viewed 404,461 times. 11 votes - 73% Co-authors: 15 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 404,461 Categories: Car Brakes | Vehicle Fuels and Fluids Article SummaryX

To check your vehicle’s brake fluid, start by opening the hood and finding the master cylinder, which is toward the back of the engine bay on the driver’s side. Then, look at the reservoir next to it and check if the fluid falls between the “Min” and “Max” lines on the container. If it’s below the minimum, carefully add more fluid. Also, check the color of the brake fluid to make sure it's brown and not black. If it looks black, you may need to replace it. For tips on how test your brake fluid if you think it needs to be changed, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages German Italian French Russian Indonesian Dutch Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 404,461 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Anonymous

    Anonymous

    Feb 7

    "I have been concerned that fluid was not visible in the brake fluid reservoir. I wasn't sure if it would be..." more
Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Ed Beery Co-authored by: Ed Beery Automotive Specialist 11 votes - 73% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 15 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 404,461 Anonymous

Anonymous

Feb 7

"I have been concerned that fluid was not visible in the brake fluid reservoir. I wasn't sure if it would be..." more Share yours!

Quizzes & Games

What Skin Type Do I Have QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizTraffic Signs TestTraffic Signs TestTake QuizWhat Type of Brain Do I Have QuizWhat Type of Brain Do I Have QuizTake QuizAre My Hormones Imbalanced QuizAre My Hormones Imbalanced QuizTake QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?What’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take Quiz

You Might Also Like

Refill Brake FluidHow toRefill Brake FluidBrake Fluid FlushThe Best Way to Flush the Brake Lines on Your VehicleGet Air Out of Brake Lines Without BleedingAir in Your Brake Lines: Why They Need to Be Bled & 4 Common MethodsCheck the Fluids in a CarHow toCheck the Fluids in a Car

Featured Articles

What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanWhat 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends BetterJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & More40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreMake FriendsHow toMake Friends

Trending Articles

What JJK Character Am I QuizWhat JJK Character Am I QuizWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizWhat Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouDo You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?

Featured Articles

The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupThe Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)An Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male PersonalitiesFrom Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

Featured Articles

7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHypnotize SomeoneHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?The Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try? Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesWhistle with Two FingersHow toWhistle with Two Fingers

Watch Articles

Grow Out Your BangsHow toGrow Out Your BangsDress PunkHow toDress PunkEnd a Long Distance RelationshipHow toEnd a Long Distance RelationshipDo E Girl EyelinerHow toDo E Girl EyelinerRespond to the Fire EmojiHow toRespond to the Fire Emoji Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look SmallHow to Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look Small

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Introvert or Extrovert QuizIntrovert or Extrovert QuizWhat Color Am I QuizWhat Color Am I Quiz24 Different Types of Bras Explained24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedWhat Is My Animagus Form?What Is My Animagus Form?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizDo I Need Glasses QuizDo I Need Glasses QuizTake QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizWhat Age Is My Brain QuizTake QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizTake QuizTemperament Test: What Is My True Personality?Temperament Test: What Is My True Personality?Take Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Cars & Other Vehicles
  • Cars
  • Car Maintenance and Repair
  • Vehicle Fuels and Fluids
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Don’t miss out! Sign up for

wikiHow’s newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --524

Tag » Where Is Brake Fluid Located