4 Symptoms of a Failing or Bad Brake Line

Brake lines are metal hardlines present on almost every contemporary car. They function as the braking system's pipes, which is powered by hydraulic pressure. The brake lines transport braking fluid from the master cylinder to the wheels, passing through flexible brake hoses and into the callipers or wheel cylinders of the vehicle.

To endure high pressures and exposure to the environment, most brake lines are composed of steel. They may, however, develop issues with time.

Any issues with the brake lines get to be a problem with the braking system, which becomes a safety concern for the vehicle and must be repaired or replaced before your next MOT testing service to avoid a failure of the MOT test.

A defective brake line will usually create a few indications that will tell the driver that maintenance is needed:

1.      Brake Fluid Leaks - Braking lines that lose brake fluid are the most prevalent cause of brake line failure. Steel is commonly used, and they can endure high pressures. They are, however, subject to leaks and can become worn or damaged as the car is driven. When a brake line fails, depending on the degree of the leak, brake fluid may seep out fast when the brakes are engaged. Damaged brake lines will be clearly stated as a failure when carrying out a MOT history checker online or if you go through your previous MOT certificates.

2.      The Brake Warning Light illuminates - An illuminated Brake Warning Light is another sign that indicates the problem has proceeded further. When the brake pad wear sensors are engaged and the fluid level drops below a specific level, the brake light will illuminate. When the brake light illuminates as a result of a failing brake line, it usually implies that the fluid has spilled below an acceptable level and that immediate care is necessary. If you check MOT history of your car, an illuminated brake light is a typical reason for MOT failure, although there might be more than one portion of the braking system that is malfunctioning.

3.      Rusty Brake Lines - Corrosion on brake lines is another sign that there is an issue with the brake lines. Exposure to the elements can cause corrosion. This can weaken the lines over time, making them more vulnerable to leaks. Brake line corrosion is more likely in cars driven in winter locations where salt is used to treat ice roadways.

4.      The Braking Power Has Been Reduced - The fact that your brakes are occasionally working or that you are having problems stopping the car is a tell-tale indicator of brake line failure. This might be caused by worn brake pads or issues with hydraulic components such as the master cylinder. If you search online for "check my MOT history" and find a MOT failure due to the brake system, always take your car to a specialist to figure out what caused the failure and whether there are any other issues that may occur in the near future.

Brake lines are critical to overall vehicle safety since they are basically part of the braking system's piping. Damaged brake lines usually need to be replaced, and since brake hard lines are all constructed to specified lengths and bent in very precise ways, replacing them necessitates the use of specialised tools and skills. As a result, if you believe that one or more of your vehicle's brake lines are failing, get your vehicle's braking system evaluated by a professional mechanic to see if your vehicle requires brake line replacement.

What Is a Brake Line and How Does It Work?

The brake line is a steel line that is essential to the overall operation of the braking system.

The following is an overview of how your brake system operates:

When you apply pressure on the brake pedal, it sends a signal to the master cylinder, which pumps brake fluid down the brake line. This is also known as a brake pipe or brake tubing.

The fluid then goes to each wheel's cylinders, where it engages the braking system.

The brake discs will next be squeezed to a stop by the calipers and brake pads.

If your car does not use brake discs, the wheel cylinder triggers your brake shoes to slow the wheel if your vehicle has drum brakes.

What about the brake hose, for example? Is it the same as the metal brake line you have?

Almost. The steel brake line is a stiff pipe that connects to your fuel tank, similar to fuel lines.

The brake hose, on the other hand, is normally a rubber hose that links the hard brake line to the moving portions of your brake, such as the brake caliper.

Because they move with the wheel suspension, rubber brake lines are flexible. Instead of rubber lines, you can come across a flexible stainless steel braided hose. These flexible stainless steel lines are more durable than rubber hose, so you won't have to replace them as frequently.