Pressure Under Control: The Complete Guide to Brake Hose Maintenance

For the purposes of vehicle safety, the mind immediately goes to the advanced computer systems, airbags or even the thickness of the brake pads. But the most important factor of your vehicle’s stopping power is entirely dependent on a network of flexible tubes, called brake hoses. These unsung parts pump the fluid that’s required to transmit pressure from your foot pushing the pedal to the wheels. Brake hoses are subjected to the elements of road debris, heat and pressure and can become vulnerable to wear and tear, which can result in a catastrophic failure if they are not maintained. Knowing how to keep these life lines up and running is an integral part of being a good driver.
The Vital Function of the Hydraulic Lifeline
Before you can grasp the reason why maintenance is important, you need to have an understanding of what a brake hose does. Pressing the brake pedal pushes the brake fluid through the metal brake lines, flexible hoses, and to the brake mechanism at each wheel. Along the solid chassis of the car, metal lines are used, but accommodating the ongoing movement of wheels, steering and suspension demands flexible rubber or stainless-steel hoses.
These hoses are …






