What should be checked for before adding brake fluid?

Before adding brake fluid, it is crucial to check for contamination. Brake fluid can be compromised by moisture, dirt, or oil, which can significantly impact the braking system's performance. Contaminated brake fluid may lead to corrosion within the braking components, reduced boiling point, and ultimately, brake failure. Ensuring the brake fluid is clean helps maintain the integrity and safety of the entire braking system.

While other factors such as fluid expiration, viscosity, and adherence to the manufacturer's specifications are important for maintaining the proper function of braking systems, the immediate concern when adding fluid is to ensure that the existing fluid is free from contamination to preserve the reliability and effectiveness of the braking performance.