Generally contaminated brake fluid is very dark and grimy looking. It also may cause a spongy brake petal, but not always. If you have reason to believe that your brake fluid is contaminated, you should definitely have it changed. If there is more than 3% water in your brake fluid, you run the risk of super heating the water causing one or more of your brake lines to explode, which apart from being incredibly dangerous is also tremendously expensive to repair. Brake fluid is very hygroscopic, and when exposed to air, it readily absorbs water.
Yes, it absorbs moisture which makes it acidic.
Could be contaminated brake fluid
Contamination is indicated by Discolored Fluid Corroded Parts Soft or swollen rubber parts
The 'Low Break Fluid' light in the dash comes on.
Corrosion? Contaminated brake fluid?
If non brake fluid is added to the master cylinder, possibly.If non brake fluid is added to the master cylinder, possibly.
Do not pump the brakes. You will need to get all of the contaminated fluid out and refill the master cylinder.
Most Brake fluid is made of Glycol-ether. (Dot 3 being the most common). But mineral spirits is used in rare dot 5. Brake fluid is not considered hazardous until it is contaminated by other properties found in a brake system such as dust or metal.
Defective caliper, restricted hose, caliper sliders sticking, contaminated brake fluid (probably not contaminated if only 1 front caliper).
DOT 5 is a silicone brake fluid and not compatible with the original fluid or components. IF the system is contaminated, take it SOON to a reputable shop for help.
Brake fluid contaminated with moisture and dirt along with wear would do it.
Just dip it in the master cylinder fluid reservoir for 2 seconds and the tip will turn colors. The darker the color, the more contaminated the fluid. These certain testers measure the amount of copper the fluid has been contaminated with contrary to many peoples beliefs that it is testing for moisture content. This is NOT true even though brake fluid DOES absorb moisture when the container is left uncapped.