Brake fluid plays a crucial role in the safety of your vehicle by transferring the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to the actual brakes. Without it, your brakes simply wouldn’t function, and as everyone knows, a car without brakes is incredibly dangerous. Even slightly compromised brakes can pose a serious risk.

Brake fluid has a tendency to absorb moisture over time, which can compromise its effectiveness. Brake systems generate high temperatures, and brake fluid is specifically designed to have a high boiling point to prevent it from evaporating. However, when too much moisture builds up, the boiling point is lowered, making the fluid more prone to boiling under heat. This can lead to reduced brake fluid levels, ultimately affecting your vehicle’s braking performance and increasing stopping distances.

Why Is Brake Fluid Replacement Necessary?

In addition to reducing effectiveness, moisture-contaminated brake fluid can lead to corrosion within the braking system. Over time, this can damage components such as the callipers, wheel cylinders, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Regular replacement helps to extend the lifespan of these parts and maintain optimal braking performance.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it actively absorbs moisture from the surrounding environment, even through microscopic openings in the brake system. This is why regular maintenance is essential to ensure safety.

Your vehicle’s manufacturer will specify how often the brake fluid should be replaced—typically outlined in the logbook service schedule. At Drouin Automotive Services, we recommend replacing it every two years as a general guideline. However, it’s equally important to have it checked during each routine service. A professional mechanic can assess the moisture content in the fluid and check for any leaks or other signs of wear that might require earlier attention.

How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?

Yes, at Drouin Automotive Services, we provide a comprehensive 65-point vehicle inspection upon request with every full service. This includes a detailed review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and rear discs and pads, callipers, cylinders, and more. Our expert mechanics will assess the condition of your braking system and notify you if the brake fluid needs replacing or if any additional brake system repairs or maintenance are required. Regular checks can catch problems early, ensuring your safety on the road.

Maintaining your brake fluid is an essential part of car ownership, and neglecting it could lead to costly repairs or, worse, compromised safety. If you’re due for a brake fluid replacement or simply want peace of mind, book a service with Drouin Automotive Services in Drouin. Our team will make sure your braking system is in top condition, so you can drive with confidence.

Learn why brake fluid is essential for your vehicle’s safety, how it works, and why regular maintenance by Drouin Automotive Services is crucial for optimal braking performance and to prevent costly repairs.

Brake Fluid: What It Is and Why It Matters

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Do you drive an Automatic vehicle? Then you might not even be aware that there is a clutch in your vehicle. Without it, the gears in your car will not change.

Drouin Automotive Services in Drouin know all about repairing and servicing these systems including clutches, cables and fluids. Learn more below.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation. Your engine is what causes your wheels to spin, but what happens when your car needs to stop? The engine shouldn't stop spinning but the wheels need to. It's the clutch that allows this to happen. The clutch allows the transfer of power from the engine to the wheels to be interrupted while a gear is being changed or while the car is stationary and the engine continues to run.

Some vehicles have hydraulic clutches - when you press the clutch pedal, the clutch fluid moves the pressure from the pedal through to the clutch and disengages the power transmission. Leaking clutch fluid can cause all kinds of problem in your vehicle so it is very important to monitor it regularly. At Drouin Automotive Services in Drouin we check your clutch fluid, hydraulic system or clutch cables for you in the course of our free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection - which you can request as part of every car service.


You should have your clutch inspected if:

What signs to look for if your clutch is not performing

You notice a burnt ‘toast' or ‘burning rubber' smell in your car, or smoke from under vehicle

Your vehicle is slipping out of gear for no reason

Your clutch is not disengaging fully, or your clutch is sticking or shuddering

If your clutch is showing any of the problems above - it could mean any number of faults. Clutch problems are difficult to diagnose by symptoms alone because many issues cause the same symptoms, depending on the vehicle and type of engine. The best way to deal with clutch shuddering, slipping or noise is contact your local mechanics at Drouin Automotive Services today.

We can perform clutch diagnostics, service and repairs on most makes and models right here in our Drouin workshop.

The clutch is one of the most important elements of your vehicles driving operation.

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

As your local Mechanic in Drouin, Drouin Automotive Services take great pride in offering our clients the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs.

Conveniently located in Drouin and servicing the surrounding suburbs of Longwarry, Warragul, Neerim, Darnum and Bunyip, Drouin Automotive Services specialise in car servicing for all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. 

Our fully qualified log book servicing ensures your car is in safe hands, and we provide quality car service and repairs on all models, including four wheel drive and diesel vehicles. 

We can offer you a convenient waiting lounge with TV, Toilets and Free Internet Access.

Loan cars are available to our customers however, bookings are essential. Within our local area we can provide a Vehicle pickup and drop off service, so please let us know you might need this service when you make a booking. There is plenty of Free parking at or near our automotive workshop in Drouin.

As a Repco Authorised Service centre, we have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care. Our Business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring each mechanic is kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods.

For friendly service from a trusted independent, you can rely on the team at Drouin Automotive Services, call us today to book in for a service or repair.

Automotive Service and Repairs in Drouin

Failure to replace your brake fluid on a regular basis will cause it to deteriorate, compromising its effectiveness.

 Did you know that pockets of air can be formed due to the deterioration, resulting in slowed braking capabilities? Ultimately, this could be the difference between avoiding a hazardous collision or risking lives and property in an avoidable accident.

Clean brake fluid not only protects your safety it also prolongs the life of your braking system components by preventing corrosion. Contaminated fluid can hinder the brake components' smooth operation, leading to brake grabbing, uneven braking, or complete brake failure.

When it comes to brake safety - we don't stop - so you will when you really need to.

Drouin Automotive Services are qualified to perform a wide range of brake services and repairs using quality parts, all covered by our Nationwide Warranty.

At Drouin Automotive Services we offer a Vehicle Inspection report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake fluid, master cylinder, front and back discs and pads, calipers and cylinders and more. This report lets you know if there is an immediate or future need for repairs to your vehicle allowing you to be safe or budget in advance.

At Drouin Automotive Services, we understand how important it is to have clean brake fluid and maintaining the brake system. Fluid Flush helps reduce the risk of corrosion, eradicate any air bubbles, and reinforce efficient braking force.

Brake Fluid Flush in Drouin

Don't leave your brakes till they breakdown, they are too important for your safety. Brake Service, Repair and Testing in Drouin

Regular inspection of your brake system is essential for ensuring it remains in optimal working condition. At Drouin Automotive Services, we perform a vehicle checkup with each full car service, alerting you to any indicators that your brakes require servicing or repair before it's too late and costly.

The braking system in a car is made up of various components, each working in tandem to bring your car to a stop. The main components include:

1. Brake pedal - the brake pedal is located inside the car, and when pressed, it sends a signal to the brake booster, which applies force to the brakes.

2. Brake booster - this component uses vacuum pressure to amplify the force applied by the driver to the brake pedal, helping to bring the car to a stop more quickly.

3. Master cylinder - the master cylinder is responsible for converting the force applied by the brake booster into hydraulic pressure that is used to actuate the brakes.

4. Brake lines - the brake lines carry the hydraulic pressure generated by the master cylinder to the brakes themselves.

5. Brake calipers - the brake calipers are responsible for clamping down on the rotors, generating friction and ultimately slowing the car down.

6. Brake pads - brake pads are positioned between the calipers and the rotors, providing a surface for the calipers to clamp down on. Over time, brake pads can wear down and will need to be replaced.

7. Rotors - rotors are discs attached to the wheels of the car that the brake pads clamp down on, generating friction and bringing the car to a stop.

All of these components work together to provide reliable stopping power, keeping you and your passengers safe while on the road.

Rotor And Drum/Brake Disc Machining or Resurfacing

Our Drouin Car Service Centre can assess your vehicle's braking system with ease if you believe it is in need of a service or repair. Make an online booking today to get started or call us direct during business hours.

Brake Service, Repair and Testing in Drouin

Keep Your Car's Brakes in Top Condition! 

Power steering is an essential component of modern vehicles, designed to make steering significantly easier and more responsive. This system employs hydraulic or electric actuators to augment the effort applied to the steering wheel, making it possible to manoeuvre heavy vehicles with minimal physical exertion. For drivers in Drouin, the team at Drouin Automotive Services offers comprehensive power steering services, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and easy to drive. Our skilled technicians are well-versed in diagnosing and repairing a variety of power steering systems, guaranteeing optimal performance and reliability.

When power steering fails, the consequences can be both immediate and dangerous. Typically, you will notice increased difficulty in turning the steering wheel, which can be especially hazardous at low speeds or during emergency manoeuvres. Other signs include a whining noise while steering, fluid leaks under the vehicle, or a steering wheel that feels stiff or jerky. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe damage to your vehicle's steering mechanism and compromise your safety on the road. At Drouin Automotive Services in Drouin, we specialise in identifying the root causes of power steering issues and implementing effective repairs to restore your vehicle’s functionality.

What Happens When My Power Steering Fails?

Two frequently asked questions we often receive about power steering are: 1. How often should power steering fluid be changed? and 2. Can I drive without power steering? The answer to the first question depends on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations, but generally, power steering fluid should be checked regularly and replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 kilometres. As for driving without power steering, while it is possible, it is highly inadvisable due to the increased physical effort required to turn the wheel, which can be unsafe in emergency situations. Our experts at Drouin Automotive Services can guide you on the best maintenance practices to ensure your power steering system remains in top condition.

At Drouin Automotive Services, we pride ourselves on being the leading power steering specialists in Drouin. Our experienced technicians use the latest diagnostic tools and repair techniques to address any power steering issues efficiently and effectively. We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring your vehicle is safe and easy to drive. Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a significant hazard—book your appointment with us today and experience the peace of mind that comes from knowing your vehicle is in expert hands.

Make A Booking With Drouin Automotive Services Today

Discover expert power steering services in Drouin at Drouin Automotive Services. Learn about power steering, failure symptoms, and why our team is your best choice. Book your appointment today!

Expert Power Steering Services in Drouin | Drouin Automotive Services

When it comes to brakes, you should never wait until brake repairs are necessary.  

Proper testing and routine checkups, such as our 65 Point Vehicle Inspection which we provide with all full car services, are important to ensure your vehicle's brake system is in top condition. Our expert team of technicians will be happy to advise you when they suspect that service or repair of your brake system is indicated to stop it becoming a bigger issue.

Brake services we perform at Drouin Automotive Services include:

Brake Disc/Rotor and Drum Resurfacing or Machining

If you recognise any symptoms that your car's braking system could possibly need service or repairs simply book online with us and have the brakes of your vehicle assessed through our Drouin workshop today.

When it comes to brakes, you should'nt wait until brake repairs are necessary, get tested regularly.  

Brake and Clutch Service in Drouin

Brake and Clutch

AAAA

VACC

Drouin Automotive Services take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 
Conveniently located in Drouin, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 
Drouin Automotive Services have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.


Drouin Automotive Services

Brake and clutch

Related articles

Brake Fluid: What Is It and Why Do You Need It?

Grinding Gears? - It could be your Clutch Fluid

Car Service in Drouin, VIC

Regular Fluid Flush means Safe Brakes

Keep Your Car's Brakes in Top Condition!

Power Steering Services