How to Change and Flush Your Brake Fluid: A Complete Guide

Maintaining your vehicle’s braking system is vital for your safety on the road. One often overlooked aspect of brake maintenance is changing the brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture and contaminants, which can affect your vehicle’s ability to stop safely. This guide will show you how often to change your brake fluid and the steps involved in flushing it.

Why Brake Fluid Needs to Be Changed Regularly

Brake fluid is crucial for the performance of your braking system. It transfers the pressure from your brake pedal to the brake pads, allowing your vehicle to stop. However, brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This moisture can cause corrosion, reduce braking efficiency, and lead to brake failure. Regular brake fluid changes are necessary to keep your braking system working effectively.

When Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?

While experts recommend changing brake fluid every two to three years, there are several factors that can affect this timing:

1. Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Check your vehicle’s manual for the specific intervals recommended for your car. The manufacturer’s guidelines are based on extensive testing.

2. Driving Conditions: If you often drive in heavy traffic, extreme temperatures, or hilly areas, your brake fluid may degrade more quickly.

3. Signs of Contamination: If your brake fluid looks dark, dirty, or smells strange, it may need to be changed.

4. Decreased Braking Performance: If your brake pedal feels spongy, soft, or if your vehicle is slower to stop, it could be due to moisture in the fluid.

How to Flush Your Brake Fluid

Flushing and replacing brake fluid is necessary for a well-maintained braking system. Here are the steps to perform a brake fluid flush:

Step 1: Gather Necessary Materials

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools and supplies:

• New brake fluid

• A wrench to open the bleeder valve

• A brake bleeder kit

• A container to collect old fluid

• Gloves and safety glasses for protection

Step 2: Locate the Brake Fluid Reservoir

The brake fluid reservoir is typically located near the back of the engine bay. Make sure your vehicle is parked on a level surface, and the engine is off before you begin.

Step 3: Drain the Old Brake Fluid

Using the wrench, open the bleeder valve on one brake line at a time. Let the old fluid drain into your container. Make sure you drain all four brake lines to remove all the old fluid.

Step 4: Refill with Fresh Brake Fluid

Once the old fluid has been drained, refill the brake fluid reservoir with new fluid. Be sure to use the type of fluid recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer and avoid overfilling.

Step 5: Bleed the Brakes

Bleeding the brakes is essential for removing any air that may have entered the brake lines during the fluid change. Start with the brake furthest from the master cylinder and move closer as you go.

Step 6: Test the Brakes

After you finish the bleeding process, press the brake pedal several times to check its firmness. If it feels soft or spongy, you may need to bleed the brakes again to remove any remaining air.

Tips for Brake System Maintenance

To ensure your brakes stay in top condition, follow these tips:

• Regularly inspect the brake fluid: Keep an eye on the fluid level and check its color. Fresh fluid should be clear or yellow. If it’s dark or contaminated, it’s time to change it.

• Avoid mixing brake fluids: Different types of brake fluid (DOT3, DOT4, DOT5, etc.) should not be mixed, as they can affect performance.

• Don’t let the reservoir run dry: Always make sure the brake fluid reservoir has enough fluid. Letting it run dry can introduce air into the system, leading to poor brake performance.

• Consult a professional if needed: If you’re unsure about how to flush brake fluid or are uncomfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.

Additional Tips for Vehicle Protection

Maintaining your brakes is only one part of vehicle maintenance. Consider these additional steps to protect your car:

• Glass Coating Protection: Consider applying a protective glass coating to your windshield for enhanced clarity and durability.

• Undercoating: Shield your vehicle’s undercarriage from rust and corrosion with undercoating protection to prevent long-term damage.

Book a Professional Brake Fluid Change

If you’re not comfortable with the process or want expert help, it’s a good idea to schedule a brake fluid change with a professional. A mechanic can ensure your system is bled properly and all air is removed, keeping your braking system in top working order.

Conclusion

Changing your brake fluid at the recommended intervals is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient braking system. By following these simple steps to flush your brake fluid and regularly maintaining your braking system, you can ensure that your vehicle performs well and that you remain safe on the road.

For other maintenance needs, consider additional services that can protect your vehicle, such as the 3M glass coating protection and undercoating services.

To schedule a professional brake fluid change or inquire about other maintenance options, please feel free to contact us.