If you own a car, then you likely know that it’s important to have your brake system flushed every few years to keep it running smoothly. But what do you do if you don’t know when your brake system needs to be flushed? In this article, we’ll explain what a brake system flush is and when you should perform it.
What is a brake system flush?
A brake system flush is a service that is performed on a car’s braking system to clean and lubricate the parts. This service is typically recommended after the car has had significant rainfall or when the brakes become noisy or feel sticky.
What are the benefits of a brake system flush?
If you have a car that’s over 10 years old, it’s likely that your brake system is overdue for a flush. Brake pads wear out and need to be replaced over time, which means the brake fluid in your system needs to be replaced too. A flush cleans out all the old fluid and debris, so your brakes will work better and last longer. Additionally, a brake system flush can help improve your car’s gas mileage.
How to perform a brake system flush?
If your car has an automatic transmission, you may not need to perform a brake system flush. Brake fluid is simply routed from the master cylinder to the slave cylinder, and back again, so any deposits or debris will just be flushed away with the fluid. If your car has a manual transmission, however, you’ll need to clean out the master and slave cylinders as well as the line between them. To do this: remove the cap on the master cylinder and fill it with fresh brake fluid. Pump the brake pedal several times to force the fluid through the lines into the slave cylinder. Replace the cap on the master cylinder and repeat steps 2-4 for the slave cylinder.
Conclusion
In general, a brake system flush is performed when the system shows signs of age or wear and requires cleaning and/or replacement. The flush will remove any residual brake fluid, rust inhibitors, and other contaminants that may have built up over time. If you are in need of a brake system flush, be sure to schedule one with your mechanic as soon as possible to avoid any potential problems down the road.