ASE Brakes Certification Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

The purpose of brake fluid in a hydraulic brake system is to transmit force from the brake pedal to the brake components. When the driver presses the brake pedal, the mechanical force applied is converted into hydraulic pressure by the brake fluid. This hydraulic pressure is then transmitted through the brake lines to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, which then apply force to the brake pads or shoes. This process allows for effective braking, as the fluid is incompressible and efficiently transfers the force needed to slow down or stop the vehicle.

The other options hint at aspects related to braking but do not accurately define the primary function of brake fluid. For example, while brake pads and rotors indeed create friction to slow the vehicle, that is not the role of the brake fluid. Similarly, lubrication of the braking system is generally handled by other materials, not brake fluid. Although brake systems do generate heat during operation, the brake fluid itself does not absorb heat; rather, it is necessary to maintain performance without boiling or losing effectiveness due to heat generated during braking.