What does the brake hose do?
A cracked brake hose can cause leaks to occur.
Brake fluid is an important part of your car’s braking system. It is a hydraulic fluid which is used to transfer force into pressure, allowing the various components in your braking system to work together and bring your car to a stop. The brake hoses (also known as brake lines) transfer brake fluid from its reservoir (or master cylinder) to the brake caliper on each wheel.
Brake hoses are usually made out of a type of rubber. Over time, the rubber will become dried out and worn (or perished), leading to splitting, tearing and leaks. This happens due to high levels of heat and constant use. Problems with the brake hoses can prevent brake fluid from reaching the brakes, affecting the operation of the brakes. For this reason, it is important that they are in good condition.
More about how brake hoses work >
What causes brake hose damage to happen?
- Wear and tear – Over time, brake hoses can become brittle and weakened due to age and wear. They can develop cracks, bulges, or other signs of wear that can compromise their performance.
- Corrosion: Brake hoses can become corroded due to exposure to salt, water, and other corrosive substances. This can weaken the hose and cause it to develop leaks or become swollen.
- Excess heat – Brake hoses are exposed to high temperatures when the brakes are applied, which can cause them to deteriorate over time. High temperatures can cause the hoses to become brittle and crack or bulge.
- Contamination – Brake hoses can become contaminated with debris, dirt, or other substances that can cause them to become clogged or damaged.
Symptoms of worn brake hoses:
Brakes feel different One of the first symptoms is a brake pedal that has less resistance and responsiveness. This is caused by a problem in the brake fluid’s hydraulic pressure, which is used to operate the brakes. Hydraulic pressure is vital to the functionality of your brake system and a lack of pressure is a reason for concern.
Brakes not operating correctly – If enough damage occurs, the brake attached to the hose will not work at all. This can affect the safety of your car, preventing you from stopping when you need to. If your brakes are not working, you should avoid driving until the problem is fixed.
Car pulling to one side when braking – Worn brake hoses can cause the brakes to work unevenly, with one wheel or brake caliper applying more pressure than the others. This can cause the car to pull to one side when you apply the brakes.
Brake fluid leaks – A cracked or torn brake hose will often leak brake fluid. These leaks may appear under your car, or around the brake caliper (next to the wheel).
Brake fluid leak repairs >
Brake hose split or bulge – sometimes a brake hose can split and leak brake fluid under pressure, or can bulge indicating a brake hose that is about to split
Brake warning light – Some cars are equipped with brake warning lights that will illuminate on the dashboard if there is a problem with the braking system. If you notice a warning light, it’s important to have your brakes inspected as soon as possible.
New Brake Hoses Installation in Hamilton
Is one or more of your car’s brake hoses not delivering brake fluid correctly? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of experienced mechanics can inspect your car’s brake hoses for cracks, tears and signs of wear. If they need replacing, we will install new brake hoses. This will greatly improve the safety of your car.
For brake hose replacement and diagnostics in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!