Causes And Symptoms Of Brake Line Damage

The brake lines hold and distribute brake fluid as needed, which means they are integral to efficient braking. Since a car's brake is its premier security feature, it follows that the brake lines are critical to your safety on the road. Thus, every motorist should be aware of the following symptoms and causes of brake line damage.

Symptoms

Brake line damage is bad news for your safety on the road so you should be aware of the associated symptoms. Below are the three major symptoms you should watch out for.

Fluid Leakage

Serious damage to brake lines will allow the fluid to leak. Thus, you might notice signs of brake fluid under your car, especially when you park the car on the same spot for an extended period. In such a case, you are probably dealing with a crack or hole on the brake line that is deep enough to allow the fluid to leak.

Line Corrosion

You should also suspect brake line damage if you can notice signs of rust (reddish or brownish deposits or discolorations) on the line. This is because corrosion weakens brake lines over time, and can eat away into the material and cause deep pits on the line.

Warning Light

The brake warning light is meant to warn you that there is something wrong with your car's brake system. Low brake fluid, a consequence of brake line damage, is one of the malfunctions that can trigger the brake warning light.

Causes

Anything that can affect the structural integrity of the brake line can damage it. Below are some of the typical suspects.

Corrosion

Brake lines are usually made from rubber or metal (steel). Steel brake lines are strong, as you can imagine, but the material is susceptible to corrosion. Constant exposure to moisture and salt (such as those in deicing chemicals used to clear snow from roads) can cause brake line corrosion. The corroded parts can weaken, crack, and allow brake fluid to leak.

Deterioration

Brake lines made of rubber can deteriorate over time. Rubber typically deteriorates when it dries and loses its flexibility. Again, deteriorated rubber can crack and trigger fluid leakage.

Accident

Lastly, a serious auto accident can also damage the brake line. A high-speed collision, for example, can complete sever the brake line and lead to serious fluid leakage.

Don't hesitate to consult your mechanic if you suspect a problem with your car's brake lines. Such a timely intervention can help prevent an auto accident. For more information, contact an auto service in your area.