Easy Guide to Brake Fluid Change

To keep your vehicle safe. It’s important to pay attention to a part that often gets forgotten – brake fluid.

Brake fluid change is important for your car’s brakes to work well. It helps transmit the force from the brake pedal to the brake callipers. Which then stops your vehicle by holding the brake rotors.

If you don’t take care of your brake fluid. It could lead to potential brake failure and put your safety at risk.

So, how often should brake fluid be changed?

Most experts agree it’s a good idea to do it every 2 years. But there are other factors to think about too.

Now let’s talk about why brake fluid is important, when, and how to change old fluid.

Why Is Brake Fluid Important?

Brake fluid plays a vital role in making your brakes work efficiently.

• When you press the brake pedal. It helps transfer the movement and force needed to stop your vehicle.
• Braking generates a lot of heat. Which can create moisture in the brake system. Brake fluid absorbs this moisture. Preventing it from causing problems like brake failure.
• It also acts as a lubricant for moving parts and stops them from corroding. The fluid needs to stay liquid in all temperatures to do its job well.

Remember, adding brake fluid isn’t something you regularly do.

If your brake fluid is low. It could mean your brake pads are wearing out and need changing soon. A sudden drop in fluid signals a problem with your brakes. So, it’s a good idea to have brake fluid checked by a mechanic check them if you’re not sure.

4 Types of Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is important for your vehicle’s brakes to work well. It connects the brake pedal, brake line, and brake callipers. Making sure that force is transferred smoothly.

There are several types of brake fluid. The Department of Transportation (DOT) separates brake fluids into four types:

1. DOT 3
2. DOT 4
3. DOT 5
4. DOT 5.1

Each type has its boiling point and mix. Which makes it right for different types of vehicles.

Most cars use DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1. They absorb moisture from the air.

DOT 5 is different. It doesn’t absorb moisture. And is often used in cars that stay parked for a long time. Like collector cars or military vehicles.

To keep your brake system working its best and ensure safety. It’s important to use brake fluid that meets your car-specific standards.

Brake Fluid has a High Boiling Point

When you brake. High temperatures (up to 204° to 260°C) hit the wheel cylinders and callipers. Despite the high heat, brake fluid must work well. Brake fluid has a high boiling point to withstand the heat generated during braking.

If brake fluid reaches its boiling point, it turns into vapour in the brake line. This makes the fluid compressible and unable to transfer braking force properly.

Why Change Brake Fluid Regularly?

Brake fluid is special because it doesn’t easily turn into vapour when things get hot. Which is great for braking.

But it has a downside.

• It attracts moisture over time, making it less effective.
• If moisture builds up in the brake fluid. It can make the brake pedal feel soft. And it can harm the brake system. Including the brake lines, master cylinder, and callipers.
• If the brake fluid gets too hot. It can boil and mess up your brakes. Causing them to not work well. Brake failure is something you definitely want to avoid.

That’s why it’s important to change your brake fluid regularly.

Brake Fluid Facts: 7 Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Only use DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid in your car.
2. Don’t use any other fluid instead of brake fluid.
3. Wash your hands after touching the brake fluid.
4. Never use DOT 5 fluid if your car uses DOT 3 or DOT 4.
5. DOT 5 doesn’t mix well with glycol fluids in cars with ABS brakes.
6. Avoid spilling brake fluid as it can harm painted surfaces and finishes.
7. You can use DOT 4 in a car that uses DOT 3. But NOT the other way around.

Know When To Change Your Brake Fluid | 4 Signs

To keep your brakes working well. It’s important to know when your brake fluid needs changing. Instead of waiting for 2 years. The brake fluid change cost usually ranges from $70 to $120.

Knowing these signs can help you decide when to do it sooner.

1. Check Your Owner’s Manual

Look in your car’s manual. It has information about when you should change your brake fluid. This is important because it’s specific to your car’s make and model.

2. Look At The Brake Fluid Reservoir

Take a look at the brake fluid reservoir. If the fluid level is low or if it looks dirty and discoloured. It’s time to change the brake fluid.

3. After Brake Maintenance Or Repairs

If you’ve recently had brake work done, like changing brake pads, it’s smart to check the brake fluid. This is the best time to make sure it’s still in good shape.

4. Pay Attention To Brake Warning Signs

Keep an eye on your brakes. If the brake pedal feels soft or your brakes don’t work as well as usual. It means your brake fluid needs changing.

Remember, good brake fluid is key to having brakes that work well and keep you safe.

Who Should Change Your Brake Fluid: DIY Or a Mechanic?

Deciding who should change your brake fluid is a choice between doing it yourself or hiring a mechanic.

Changing brake fluid on your own can save money, but it requires knowing about your car’s brake system and having the right tools.

A professional mechanic, however, has the experience and tools to do a proper brake fluid change. They can also identify any possible problems. Like brake line leaks or corrosion, that may need fixing.

Factors	DIY	Mechanic
Expertise	Need to be highly skilled with brakes	Professional training and experience
Equipment & Tools	Limited tools	Specialized equipment available
Safety Concerns	Higher personal safety risks	Trained in safety protocols

How to Change Brake Fluid: A Simple 6-Step Guide

This easy guide has 6 steps to help you replace brake fluid.

It’s meant to explain the process. But remember!

Changing brake fluid isn’t something everyone can do. It’s best for those who are very skilled. Because it needs professional training.

Modern braking systems also work under really high pressure. Always check your car manual to know if you’re allowed to do any brake system repairs yourself.

1. Drain Old Brake Fluid

Find the brake master cylinder. Take off its cap and drain out as much old fluid as you can. It’s easier to do this if the car is up on axle stands with all four wheels removed.

2. Refill with New Brake Fluid

Fill the master cylinder all the way to the FULL line with new brake fluid.

3. Flush the Callipers/Wheel Cylinders

Open the bleed nipple at the back of each brake calliper/wheel cylinder to let out the old brake fluid.

4. Bleed the Brakes Until the New Brake Fluid Appears

Go to each calliper/wheel cylinder one by one. Open the bleed valve. Drain out the remaining old fluid and any air bubbles until the new fluid appears.

5. Top-up to Maintain the Brake Fluid Level

Keep checking the brake fluid level in the master cylinder and fill it up when needed.

6. Repeat the Process with Each Calliper/Wheel Cylinder

Bleed each calliper/wheel cylinder one by one until you’ve gone through all of them.

Regularly Change Brake Fluid for Safety

In conclusion, regularly changing brake fluid is necessary to keep the brakes working successfully. It is important for your and others’ safety on the road.

Neglecting this simple maintenance task can lead to contamination, reduced brake performance, corrosion, lower boiling points, and damage to seals. To keep your brakes reliable and responsive. Make brake fluid changes a priority in your vehicle maintenance routine.

Keep Your Brake Safety with All Aspects Motors

At All Aspects Motors, your safety is our priority.

Ensure your brakes are in top-notch condition by scheduling a quick and easy brake fluid change today. Don’t compromise on safety. Let us keep your vehicle running smoothly on the road.

Schedule Brake Fluid Change

Brake Fluid FAQs

1. Can you change brake fluid yourself?

YES. It can be done. But it’s a task that needs careful expertise.

If you’re not sure about your car skills. It’s better to let a professional mechanic handle it. Your safety is the most important. So, it’s not the best time to take risks.

2. How do I know if my brake fluid needs changing?

5 Signs You Need Brake Fluid Change

• Soft or bouncy brake pedal: If it feels mushy or requires extra pressure. Get a brake fluid change to fix potential air in the brake line affecting performance.
• ABS light: A lit ABS light means low brake fluid. Important for proper anti-lock braking system function.
• Ineffective brakes: Delays or difficulties in stopping? It is time for a brake fluid flush to restore the best brake function.
• Strange brake noises or smells: Scraping, grinding, or burning smells after hard braking? Act fast to avoid further issues, including potential brake failure.
• Routine brake maintenance: Follow your brake maintenance schedule. Around every 2 years or 30,000 miles. Adjust based on your driving patterns and check your owner’s manual for specifics.

3. Is a brake fluid flush really necessary?

Yes, a brake fluid flush is essential, and here are the reasons why:

• Safety First: Brake fluid plays an important role in making sure your brakes work properly. If it gets old or unclean. It affects your car’s ability to stop safely.
• Prevent Brake Failure: A brake fluid flush helps get rid of old and dirty fluid. This prevents brake failure. It is vital for your safety on the road.
• Maintain Performance: Over time, brake fluid loses its effectiveness. Brake fluid flush ensures you have fresh fluid to maintain optimal brake performance.

Don’t risk your vehicle’s safety. Give importance to brake fluid maintenance. And your vehicle will have good brakes that work well.

4. What happens if brake fluid is not changed?

If brake fluid is not changed, several problems can occur:

• Contamination: Over time, brake fluid gets dirty with moisture, dust, and debris. If not changed, the contaminated fluid leads to decreased brake performance.
• Decreased Brake Performance: Brake fluid plays an important role in transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brakes. If it’s not changed. The fluid’s effectiveness decreases. Which results in less responsive brakes.
• Corrosion: Old brake fluid can cause corrosion in the brake system. This then damages components like brake callipers and master cylinders. Corrosion can lead to brake failure if left unaddressed.
• Boiling Point Decrease: Brake fluid has a high boiling point to withstand the heat generated during braking. Over time, this boiling point decreases. Without changing the fluid, there’s a risk of the brakes overheating and losing effectiveness, especially in demanding conditions.

Seal Damage: The rubber seals in the brake system can deteriorate over time. Fresh brake fluid helps keep these seals in good condition. If not changed, the old fluid can lead to seal damage. Causing leaks and a loss of hydraulic pressure in the brake system.