If you’re like most drivers, your car’s brake fluid may have been low for a while now. That’s because brake fluid is a consumable item that needs to be replaced regularly, typically every 3 to 6 months. So what do you do if you don’t have any brake fluid in your car and it’s time to flush it? Read on to find out!
What is a Brake Fluid Flush?
A brake fluid flush is a process of cleaning and refilling your brake system. It’s important to keep your brakes operating at their peak performance, so it’s a good idea to do a brake fluid flush every few years. Here are the steps for performing a brake fluid flush:
1. Park your car in a safe location. If you can, park on a level surface.
2. Shut off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Remove the front wheel studs.
4. Disconnect the master cylinder reservoir hose (if present).
5. Remove the front caliper bolts and caliper assembly.
6. Remove the front pads by prying them off with a screwdriver or similar tool. Be sure to save both the backing plate and the pad itself; you’ll need them later on when you re-install the caliper assembly.
7. Pour enough brake fluid into the MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR to cover the bottom of the piston (approximately 3 cups). Let it soak for about five minutes while you prepare your tools and surfaces.
Benefits of a Brake Fluid Flush
When it comes to your car’s brakes, you want to make sure they’re working at their best. A brake fluid flush can help ensure your brakes are performing optimally and keeping you safe on the road. Here are some of the benefits of a brake fluid flush:
-It can improve brake pedal feel. When brake pads come in contact with the rotors, friction creates heat. This heat can wear down the pads faster over time, causing a decrease in braking power. A brake fluid flush can help restore overall pad performance and provide a more consistent pedal feel.
-It can clean and lubricate the calipers and pistons. Brake fluid is a multi-purpose fluid that helps to reduce friction and protect metal surfaces from corrosion. A brake fluid flush can also remove built-up debris and oils that can cause slippage and grinding of the pistons and calipers.
-It can improve braking response time. Brake fluid is a natural anti-freeze, which means it has properties that slow down the movement of freezing water droplets inside the system. Over time, this sluggishness can lead to poor braking performance due to freezing and clogging of components.
How to Perform a Brake Fluid Flush
A brake fluid flush is a great way to keep your brakes in good working order. Here’s how to do it:
1. Remove the cap on the brake fluid reservoir. If there is no cap, it is likely that the reservoir has been replaced or removed and a new one installed.
2. Pour enough brake fluid into the reservoir to cover the bottom of the drum.
3. Connect the hose to the brake fluid reservoir and place the other end into a clean, open container.
4. Turn on the engine and allow it to run until the brake pedal feels firm and stopping distances are normal. Check for leaks by spraying a small amount of liquid from the hose onto a flat surface and watching where it spreads. If any leaks are found, fix them before proceeding.
5. Shut off the engine and remove the hose from the container. Pour any excess brake fluid into the reservoir. Replace the cap on the reservoir and tighten securely with a wrench if necessary.
Precautions When Performing a Brake Fluid Flush
When flushing a brake system, take the following precautions:
1. Make sure all brakes are fully applied before starting the flush.
2. Use a clean container and avoid contact with any chemicals that could contaminate the fluid.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid over-filling or under-filling the system.
4. Allow the flush to complete before removing the cap or tubing.
5. Dispose of all waste properly and keep yourself and your vehicle safe while flushing a brake system.