What does brake fluid do in a vehicle's braking system?

Brake fluid plays a critical role in a vehicle's braking system by efficiently transmitting the force applied to the brake pedal to the brake components. When the driver presses down on the brake pedal, the brake fluid is compressed and transfers that force through the brake lines to either disk or drum brakes, activating them to slow or stop the vehicle. This hydraulic action is essential for effective braking performance, ensuring that the vehicle responds accurately to the driver's commands.

The nature of brake fluid allows it to maintain a consistent performance under varying conditions, including temperature changes and pressure fluctuations. It is specifically designed to withstand high temperatures that can occur during braking, preventing vapor lock and maintaining the fluid's ability to provide reliable braking action. Thus, the selection of high-quality brake fluid is vital to ensuring safety and efficiency in a vehicle's operation.