Why is My Brake Fluid Green? A Guide to Color Changes in Brake Fluid

When should brake fluid be changed?

Vehicle fluids have a standard life and will need to be replaced at certain intervals. How often you replace them depends on the vehicle manufacturer, driving style, and type of fluid used. It usually needs to be replaced every two years or 38,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. If you drive in a very dusty, dirty environment, it is recommended that vehicle owners replace the fluid every year. In even more severe conditions, vehicle owners should change it every six months or 19,000 kilometers.

How do I check my brake fluid?

• Checking your brake fluid is a simple process that can easily be done at home. All you need is a rag, some engine degreaser or brake cleaner, and a funnel. Make sure your car is parked on a level surface and that the engine is turned off before you start.
• Open the hood of the car and locate the brake master cylinder. The brake master cylinder is usually located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the firewall.
• Check fluid level - the fluid level in the master cylinder should be between the minimum (MIN) and maximum (MAX) fill lines. The ideal fluid level is at or near the maximum (MAX) line. If it is not then you will need to top up your fluid levels with the vehicle manufacturer's recommended type of brake fluid. If your vehicle has an ABS system fitted it is important to make sure that your vehicle manufacturer recommends you use one made for anti-lock braking systems. If the vehicle does not have an ABS system fit then you can use a standard type.
• Check fluid color - If it is green and/or contains glycol ether, it could be contaminated and should be checked by a professional for safety concerns.

What color should brake fluid be normally?

It is typically clear with a slight yellowish tint, depending on what kind of brake pads are used in the vehicle the fluid's age, and the brand. 

Why is my brake fluid green?

If you have discovered that your brake fluid IS green, the most likely reason is that it has been contaminated by the fluid chemical components breaking down and attacking the brazed joint in the brake tubing. To break it down in simple terms, if copper levels are high enough in the fluid, the fluid will typically turn green. This is often caused by brakes that are not checked regularly enough or by the incorrect replacement of brake pads.

Another reason the fluid could turn green is that moisture has infiltrated the system. The fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and holds water molecules. As the water content in it increases, the boiling point decreases, which can lead to brake fade – a condition where the brakes don't work as well as they should because they've overheated.

Is green brake fluid hazardous?

Should the brake fluid in your car deviate from its standard color, which is typically clear for most brake systems, it certainly raises a red flag and warrants attention. Particularly, if you notice the fluid turning green, it's crucial to consult with a Certified Mechanic or Auto Technician for expert advice and service.

What do I do next?

Generally, brake fluid can be flushed and refilled. The first thing you need to do is find a brake specialist who can test the integrity of your vehicle's hydraulic braking system. They will determine what's causing the green fluid and whether it needs new parts. If no damage has been done, then the vehicle should be fine after a fluid flush and refill.

However, if the brakes have been compromised, it's important to take your vehicle in for repair as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with contaminated fluid can lead to serious and expensive damage. Be sure to keep an eye on your fluid levels, and change them according to your vehicle manufacturer's guidelines. Additionally, have your vehicle serviced regularly to avoid fluid contamination in the future.