The Real Reason Water in Your Brake Fluid Is So Dangerous

Among all the safety systems in your car, none is more critical in emergencies than the brakes. But have you ever considered what might happen if water gets into your brake fluid? While many drivers focus on changing brake fluid at regular intervals, few are aware of how moisture contamination can lead to severe failures. This article breaks down how hydraulic brake systems work, what happens when water gets in, real-world accident cases, and how to properly maintain your brake system.     How Hydraulic Brake Systems Work Most modern vehicles use a hydraulic disc brake system . When you press the brake pedal, fluid in the master cylinder is compressed and pressure is transmitted to the calipers at each wheel. This pressure forces brake pads against the discs, creating friction that slows the car down. This system works efficiently because brake fluid is essentially incompressible . That means pedal force is transferred immediately and accurately, ensurin...