It can be a big hassle to have your car’s brakes inspected and serviced, but it’s especially inconvenient if there’s a delay in getting your car done. Fortunately, there are now ways to get your brakes done without having to go to the dealership. Check out this guide on how to do a brake flush yourself!
What is a brake flush?
A brake flush is a service performed on a car’s brakes to remove any built-up brake dust and debris. This is done by spraying the brakes with a degreaser, then scrubbing them with a pad.
Regularly cleaning the brake pads and discs will help keep them in good condition and ensure that they stop properly. Brake flushes are typically around $50-60, but can vary depending on the make and model of your car.
How to do a brake flush
Brake flush is one of the most common car maintenance tasks. Brake fluid can become contaminated with debris and other materials over time, leading to brake failure. A brake flush removes all of the debris and cleans the brake system of any built-up fluid or contaminants.
Here’s how to do a brake flush:
1. Remove the wheel covers and scrunch them up in a ball. This will help contain any leaks.
2. Open the hood and locate the brake fluid reservoir. It may be in the rear of the car near the engine, or it may be on top of the car near the wheel wells. If it’s on top, loosen the cap and let some of the fluid leak out.
3. Remove the cap from the brake fluid reservoir and discard it. Fill the reservoir to within 1/4 inch of the top with clean, degreased water (or formula if your car has a specific type). Make sure all air bubbles are removed from the container before filling it with water.
4. Add enough clean water to reach halfway up the cylinder bore of each caliper (or as required). Do not overfill; you do not want water inside the calipers.
Benefits of doing a brake flush
A brake flush is a great way to keep your braking system in tip-top shape. Here are some of the benefits:
1. Better brake performance – A brake flush cleans out the dust and debris that can cause poor braking performance.
2. Increased pedal feel – Brake fluid can sometimes be thick and viscous, which can make it difficult to feel the pedal when you’re trying to stop quickly. A brake flush can improve the feel of your brakes by flushing away the old fluid and replacing it with fresh, cleaner fluid.
3. Fewer brake problems – Keeping your brakes clean and free of debris can help prevent common brake problems like squeaks, grinding noises, and stopping problems.
If you’re ever feeling unsure about whether or not your brakes need a brake flush, don’t hesitate to consult your car’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
Cost of a brake flush
Brake flush is a service that removes brake dust and other contaminants from your braking system. The cost of this service varies depending on the severity of the contamination. In most cases, a brake flush costs less than $50.
If you have severe brake dust contamination, you may need to replace your brakes altogether. In that case, the cost of a brake flush would be additional cost.