Leaking Brake Lines: What You Need To Know

Have you ever pressed down on your brakes just to hear a loud squealing that you and everyone else at the stoplight are cringing at? If so, you likely are having brake trouble and they need to be replaced or repaired.

There are multiple components to your brakes, from the pads to the rotors and the brake lines. One of those components is not looked at as often as it should be and that is the lines.

One of the most common problems that arise is a loss of brake fluid. When the fluid is gone, you will be unable to brake your vehicle as effectively as you need to and in some severe cases, you cannot brake at all. If you do notice that you are losing brake fluid, you need to check the lines.

How to Check the Brake Lines

When you notice a pool of brake fluid on the ground, you will need to start by checking each brake line to see if you can identify a leak. Typically, the line will be wet, or you may notice streaking on the lines, which is a sign that there is dried fluid.

Take your finger and feel along the line for any spots that feel thin. If you notice that there is rust on your line, you should sand it down first and then reevaluate the line for any small holes or thin spots.

You should now look at any of the present rubber pieces on the brake lines. If these pieces are very dried or they crack when you touch them, you will need to replace them.

Replacing the Brake Lines

Once you have identified that the brake lines are indeed the problem and cause of the leak, they need to be replaced. You can do the job easily if you are experienced in automotive mechanics, but if not, you may want to consider having a professional do it for you. After all, they are your only stopping power while driving on the road.

How Much Will It Cost?

The national average for the required brake line parts ranges from $20 to $45. If you choose to have a professional handle the repair for you, you can expect to spend somewhere between $100 and $200. This price will include both the part and the labor required to fix the vehicle.

Your brakes are an important component of your vehicle and you do not want to risk your safety of the safety of others by driving around with leaking brake lines. Contact a company like Care Muffler & Brake Shop to get started.


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