What should you do if your brake fluid is cloudy or milky?

If your brake fluid is cloudy or milky, it indicates contamination, which can significantly impair your brake system's performance. Brake fluid serves not only to transfer force from the brake pedal to the braking mechanism but also should maintain specific properties, including clarity and viscosity. Contaminated fluid can introduce moisture and dirt into the braking system, leading to corrosion, brake failure, and reduced effectiveness.

Changing the brake fluid immediately is necessary because cloudiness or a milky appearance typically suggests that water has mixed with the fluid, which can lower its boiling point and lead to vapor lock when braking. It is crucial to maintain clean brake fluid to ensure optimal braking performance and safety on the road. Regular inspections and timely replacement of brake fluid can prevent more serious problems from developing and ensure that the braking system operates effectively.