This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of changing your brake fluid.
Plus, you’ll learn:
- The Importance of brake fluid maintenance
- Tools you’ll need to change your brake fluid
- Step-by-step guide to changing your brake fluid
- Common mistakes you should avoid during brake fluid change
Importance Of Brake Fluid Maintenance
Regular brake fluid maintenance is essential for your car’s safety and performance.
Here’s why is brake fluid maintenance important.
Brake fluid helps prevent accidents by ensuring your brakes work efficiently.
If your brake fluid is low or contaminated, your brakes may not stop your car as quickly as they should, which can be dangerous, especially in emergencies.
Brake fluid also affects your car’s overall performance.
If your brake fluid is old or dirty, it can make your brakes feel sluggish or spongy.
This can make it more difficult to stop your car smoothly and predictably.
Neglecting brake fluid maintenance can be expensive in the long run.
So, If your brake fluid is not changed regularly, it can damage your brake components, which can lead to costly repairs or even the need to replace your entire brake system.
More so, Brake fluid is a hazardous material that can contaminate the environment if it is not disposed of properly.
By changing your brake fluid regularly and disposing of it properly, you can help protect the environment.
How Often Should You Change Your Brake Fluid?
The recommended frequency for brake fluid changes varies depending on the type of vehicle you drive and your driving habits.
However, most experts recommend changing your brake fluid every two to three years.
Recommended Brake Fluid Change Intervals
| Vehicle Type | Recommended Change Interval |
| Passenger Cars | 2-3 years |
| Trucks & SUVs | 2-3 years |
| Sports Cars | 1-2 years (due to more aggressive driving) |
Factors That Can Affect The Frequency Of Brake Fluid Changes
Vehicle type:
Different types of vehicles have different brake systems.
For example, sports cars and SUVs typically have more demanding brake systems than sedans.
This means that their brake fluid may need to be changed more frequently.
Driving Conditions:
If you drive in harsh conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, your brake fluid may degrade more quickly.
You may also need to change your brake fluid more frequently if you do a lot of heavy braking, such as when driving in stop-and-go traffic.
Brake System Health:
If your brake system is in good condition, your brake fluid may not need to be changed as often.
However, if your brake system is damaged or worn, your brake fluid may need to be changed more frequently.
Signs That Your Brake Fluid Needs To Be Changed
There are a few signs that your brake fluid may need to be changed.
These include:
- A spongy brake pedal
- Long stopping distances
- Squeaking or squealing brakes
- Brake fluid that is dark or discolored
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your brake fluid inspected by a mechanic.
Tools And Materials Needed To Change Your Brake Fluid
Here are the tools and materials you will need to change your brake fluid:
Brake bleeder kit:
A brake bleeder kit is a special tool that helps you remove air from your brake system.
It typically includes a bleeder bottle, a bleeder screw wrench, and a tube.
Wrench or socket set:
You will need a wrench or socket set to loosen the bleeder screws and the drain plug on your brake fluid reservoir.
Phillips head and flat head screwdrivers:
You may need a Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers to remove the cap from your brake fluid reservoir.
Funnels:
Funnels will help you pour the new brake fluid into your brake fluid reservoir.
Clean rags or shop towels:
You will need clean rags or shop towels to clean up any spills.
Container for draining old brake fluid:
You will need a container to drain the old brake fluid.
New brake fluid:
You will need to purchase new brake fluid.
The type of brake fluid you need will depend on your vehicle.
You can find this information in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Optional tools and materials:
- Brake fluid tester
- Protective eyewear
- Gloves
- Mask
Step-by-Step Guide To Changing Brake Fluid
Here is a step-by-step guide to changing your brake fluid:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface. This will help prevent brake fluid from leaking.
- Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a brake bleeder kit, a wrench or socket set, a Phillips head and flat head screwdrivers, funnels, clean rags or shop towels, a container for draining old brake fluid, and new brake fluid.
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir and bleeder screws. The brake fluid reservoir is usually located under the hood, near the firewall, and the bleeder screws are located on the brake calipers.
- Open the reservoir cap. This will allow air to escape from the reservoir.
- Remove the drain plug. This will allow the old brake fluid to drain.
- Allow the old brake fluid to drain completely. This may take several minutes.
- Reinstall the drain plug.
- Add new brake fluid to the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the “Full” line.
- Start the engine and pump the brake pedal several times. This will help to distribute the new brake fluid throughout the brake system.
- Turn off the engine.
- Open the bleeder screw on the furthest wheel from the master cylinder.
- Pump the brake pedal several times. This will force the old brake fluid out of the bleeder screw.
- Release the brake pedal.
- Catch the escaping brake fluid in a container.
- Repeat steps 12-14 until all of the old brake fluid has been flushed out of the system.
- Close the bleeder screw.
- Repeat steps 11-16 for the remaining wheels.
- Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. Add more brake fluid if necessary.
- Start the engine and test the brakes. Apply the brakes gently and make sure that they feel firm and responsive.
- Turn off the engine and reinstall the reservoir cap.
Common Mistakes To Avoid During Brake Fluid Change
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when changing your brake fluid:
Overfilling The Brake Fluid Reservoir:
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can cause air pockets to form in the brake system.
This can make your brakes feel spongy and reduce their stopping power.
Not Bleeding The Brakes Properly:
If you do not bleed the brakes properly, there may be air in the brake system, which can also make your brakes feel spongy and reduce their stopping power.
Using Incompatible Brake Fluid:
Using incompatible brake fluid can damage your brake system.
It is important to use the type of brake fluid that is recommended for your vehicle.
Neglecting To Check For Leaks:
If you do not check for leaks after changing your brake fluid, you may not notice a leak that is developing. This can lead to brake failure.
Not Replacing The Reservoir Cap:
If you do not replace the reservoir cap, brake fluid can leak out of the reservoir.
This can reduce your brake fluid level and make your brakes feel spongy.