If you own a Prius, you should probably get your brake fluid flushed every 6 months or 12,000 miles. This is according to Toyota, and it’s good advice – brake fluid is a consumable item that can corrode the brake lines if it isn’t flushed regularly.
Pros and Cons of Flushing Brake Fluid
If you own a Prius, you probably know that it needs to be flushed with brake fluid every 3000 miles or so. But what are the pros and cons of flushing your brake fluid? Here are some things to think about.
The Pros of Flushing Brake Fluid:
1. It Keeps Your Brakes Working at Their Best. The brake fluid in your Prius helps to keep the brakes working properly. If there is any air or moisture in the fluid, it can cause the brakes to wear down more quickly over time. By flushing it every 3000 miles, you’re ensuring that your brakes will function properly and last longer.
2. It Prevents costly repairs down the road. If your brakes stop working altogether, flushing the fluid can prevent costly repairs – like replacing all of the brake pads and rotors. By regularly flushing the brake system, you’re also keeping debris and other particles out of the system, which could cause problems later on.
The Cons of Flushing Brake Fluid:
1. It Can Be Expensive. Flushing
When to Flush Brake Fluid
When your Prius experiences a sudden stop, you may notice your brake pedal feels spongy or has a metallic taste. This is likely due to dried brake fluid on the rotors.
If your Prius has fewer than 10,000 miles, it’s time to get the fluid flushed and replaced. If your Prius has more than 10,000 miles, but the fluid looks and smells fine, you can wait until the next time you have an opportunity to flush the system. However, if your Prius experiences a recurring problem with stopping suddenly or if you notice significant grinding or whining when braking, it’s time to get the fluid flushed and replaced.
When should I get brake fluid flushed in my Toyota Prius?
Toyota recommends getting brake fluid flushed every 10,000 miles for all models of their Prius cars. If you experience any problems with braking (such as a spongy pedal or a metallic taste), then it’s recommend that you have the system flushed as soon as possible.
How Often Should You Flush Brake Fluid in a Prius?
The brake fluid in your Prius is specifically designed to help stop the car quickly. Brake fluid should be flushed every 5 years or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Conclusion
If you own a Prius, it’s important to keep in mind that brake fluid should be flushed at the recommended intervals by your Toyota dealership. By doing so, you’ll ensure your brakes are performing at their best and preventing any potential problems down the road. If you ever have any questions or concerns about this process, don’t hesitate to speak with your Toyota dealer.