It’s important to keep your brake system in good working order – not only to avoid getting pulled over, but also to ensure a safe ride for you and your passengers. One of the ways that you can keep your brake system in peak condition is by flushing the brake fluid reservoir every time you change the oil or replace the brake pads.
What is Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a fluid used to slow or stop a car or other vehicle. It is used in both hydraulic and mechanical brakes. Brake fluid is made up of two types of liquids: a detergent and a corrosion inhibitor. When the brake pads contact the brake rotors, the friction between them causes heat. The hot brake pad material vaporizes the detergent liquid, which cleans the metal surface of the rotor. The corrosion inhibitor liquid then forms a protective film on the metal that keeps it from corroding.
Most cars are designed so that the factory-installed brake pads and rotors need to be replaced every 80,000 miles (129,000 km). However, if you have recently replaced your brake pads or rotors, it is still important to flush your system and bleeding your brakes every time you get an oil change. Brake fluid can also be flushed every time you have your brakes serviced.
How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Flushed
Brake fluid is a vital part of your car’s braking system. Fluid should be flushed every 5,000 miles or as required by the manufacturer.
What to Do If You Don’t Know When Your Brake Fluid Needs to Be Flushed
If you don’t know when your brake fluid needs to be flushed, it is a good practice to flush the system every time you change the oil and every 3,000 miles.
Things That Can Cause a Lack of Brake Fluid
One of the most common causes of a lack of brake fluid is a leak. A few things that can cause a brake fluid leak are:
-A burst or defective brake line
-A blown out or failed brake caliper
-A corroded or contaminated brake fluid reservoir
Conclusion
Brake fluid should be flushed every time the brake pads are replaced, regardless of whether or not there is any visible wear and tear on the brake system. This is to ensure that the braking system remains in good condition and can handle sudden stopping maneuvers without failing. If you have questions about when to flush your brakes, don’t hesitate to ask your mechanic or call our customer service line at 1-800-762-2974.