Are you experiencing a loss of braking power when you apply the brakes? If so, it might be time to flush your brake fluid. Here’s how to do it on a Tacoma.
Symptoms of a Leaky Brake Fluid System
Whenever your Tacoma’s brake fluid system is leaking fluid, you’ll likely experience one or more of the following symptoms: poor braking performance, a “pinging” noise when braking, and a smell of brake fluid. Here’s how to diagnose and fix a leaky brake fluid system in your Tacoma:
1. Check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir. If the reservoir is almost empty, there’s probably a leak somewhere.
2. Check for signs of a leak on the hoses and lines connecting the reservoir to the brakes. If you see evidence of a leak, replace the hose or line immediately.
3. Check for leaks inside the brakes themselves. If you don’t see any obvious signs of a leak, remove the calipers and check for leaks inside them. Replace any leaking parts as needed.
How Often to Flush Brake Fluid in Tacoma
If you own a 2009-2015 Tacoma truck, it’s important to regularly flush the brake fluid. Brake fluid can become contaminated over time and cause your brakes to stop working properly. Here are the steps you need to take to flush your brake fluid:
1. Park your truck in a safe place.
2. Remove the wheel and tire.
3. Open the hood of your truck and locate the brake fluid reservoir.
4. Remove the cap on the brake fluid reservoir and pour out all of the brake fluid.
5. Replace the cap on the brake fluid reservoir and plug it back in.
6. Reinstall the wheel and tire on your truck.
7. Drive your truck around for a few minutes to make sure that the brakes work correctly.
How Often to Check Brake Fluid Levels in Tacoma
When it comes to brakes, it’s important to keep them properly maintained. One way to do that is to check the brake fluid levels occasionally. Here are some guidelines for how often you should check your Tacoma’s brake fluid:
-Every 3,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.
If your Tacoma has disc brakes, you should also check the wheel cylinder pressure every time you change the brake pads.