The Importance Of Working With The Right Auto Repair Professional

Hydraulic hoses have a few automotive applications, although power steering and braking systems are the most common locations in passenger vehicles. Vehicles with a manual transmission will also typically use hydraulic hoses to control clutch actuation. These functions are critical to vehicle safety, making hose failures a potentially severe issue.

Automotive hoses come in a few different styles and may use several different materials in their construction. If you work on your car yourself, recognizing the signs of failure in these hoses (particularly in brake lines) can help keep you safe and avoid catastrophic issues.

Keep reading to learn three of the most common warning signs that you may need to replace a brake or power steering hose.

1. Weeping Fittings

A major loss of hydraulic fluid in a car will usually have some very noticeable impacts, such as a total loss of braking power at the front or rear or a failure of the power steering system. However, hoses don't always fail catastrophically. Sometimes, hoses may show earlier warning signs or lose small amounts of hydraulic fluid.

"Weeping" typically occurs near the fittings where a brake hose connects to the caliper or the hard brake lines leading to the master cylinder. Small amounts of fluid will leak out, coating the area near the fitting and creating an oily or dirty appearance. While repairing the fitting itself may be possible, replacing the brake hose is often a better and safer option.

2. Visible Bulging, Swelling, or Blisters

Rubber hydraulic hoses will often begin to swell as they age, especially when contaminated with excessive moisture or unapproved oils. This deterioration is sometimes visible through a quick inspection, and you may notice portions of the hose that are bulging or blistering. However, internal swelling is also a concern.

When visually inspecting your brake lines, watching the hoses as someone presses on the brake pedal can sometimes make these symptoms more apparent. If you notice any of these signs of deterioration, replacing the hydraulic hose is critical. These issues can prevent hydraulic fluid from freely traveling to and from the calipers, reducing stopping power or preventing the brake pads from retracting.

3. Cuts or Other Damage

Although rubber hoses are relatively durable, the environment inside your engine bay or wheel wells can be harsh. Improper repairs or road debris can damage the brake hose's outer protective layers. Even if you do not see signs of leakage, this damage can compromise the strength of the hose, reduce its flexibility, and increase the chances of future leaks or failure.

While minor scuffs or scrapes with zero evidence of leakage may not require immediate replacement, you should consider installing a new hydraulic hose as soon as possible. This preventative maintenance will help ensure your car's braking system remains strong and that a damaged hose doesn't result in a potentially disastrous failure.

Reach out to a hydraulic hose supplier to learn more.