Does the brake fluid have to be topped up or changed? We have listed here why it is important to check the brake fluid level every now and then and to have the fluid changed regularly on your Ford F-150.
The brakes are the most important safety feature on your vehicle. Without them, there would be no way to slow down or stop the vehicle to avoid obstacles or stop at intersections. Most F-150 owners are aware that the brakes are an essential part of their safety. However, many forget the importance of having the brake fluid renewed regularly.
From the moment the brake fluid is poured into your car from a sealed container, it begins to absorb moisture from the air. In the beginning these are only very small amounts. Over time, however, there will be more and more water that settles in the brake fluid. Whenever the cover of the brake fluid reservoir is opened, air and moisture can enter. That is why the container is usually transparent so that you can read the level of the brake fluid without having to open the container. Even small leaks in the brake system or cracks in the lines mean that more and more liquid penetrates.
Of course, water in the braking system sounds a bit dangerous. Mixing it with water lowers the boiling temperature of the brake fluid. Since the braking system consists of many moving parts and high temperatures occur, this change can have serious consequences. Damage to the brake lines or connectors can also cause brake fluid to leak. This reduces the fill level until finally enough pressure can no longer be built up.
The brake fluid reservoir can be found in the engine compartment of your Ford F-150. A scale is stamped on the side of the container. Here you can quickly see how much brake fluid is in the system. If the level is too low, you should act urgently!
Checking brake fluid level on F-150
- Park your vehicle on a level surface.
- Look at the brake fluid reservoir to see where the brake fluid level is relative to the MIN and the MAX marks on the reservoir.
- The brake system could be affected if the brake fluid level is below the MIN mark or above the MAX mark on the brake fluid reservoir.
Note: To avoid fluid contamination, the reservoir cap must remain in place and fully tight, unless you are adding fluid.
Brake fluid specifications for Ford F-150
Use fluid that meets the defined specification and viscosity grade by Ford. If you do not use fluid that meets the defined specification and viscosity grade, it could result in component damage that your vehicle warranty does not cover and reduced brake performance.
- Motorcraft® DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid (U.S.) – (WSS-M6C65-A2)
- Motorcraft® DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid / Liquide de frein automobile haute performance DOT 4 LV Motorcraft®(Canada)
- PM-20 (U.S. & Canada)
Ford recommends that you use DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) High Performance Brake Fluid or equivalent meeting WSS-M6C65-A2. If you use any fluid other than the recommended fluid, it could cause reduced brake performance and not meet the performance standards set by Ford. Keep brake fluid clean and dry. Contamination with dirt, water, petroleum products or other materials could result in brake system damage and possible failure.
Brake Fluid Maintenance
Ford recommends to change brake fluid every 3 years on Ford F-150. Do not exceed the designated time for the interval. Brake fluid servicing requires special equipment available at your Ford dealer.
