There are a few things you should check and do on your car every 6 months, but one that many people forget is flushing the brake fluid. Brake fluid is a reservoir of anti-lock brakes (ABS) chemical that helps to keep your car from skidding or losing control on slippery surfaces. But like most things in life, if it’s not done regularly it can become a problem.
What is Brake Fluid?
Brake fluid is a fluid that is used to help stop a car. Brake fluid is put in the brake lines of a car. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake fluid pushes the brake pads against the rotor, stopping the car.
Why Do I Need to Flush Brake Fluid?
Brake fluid is a type of fluid that helps to slow or stop a car. It is usually in a reservoir under the car, and when the brake pedal is pressed, the fluid squirts out through the brake lines and into the braking system.
When brake fluid is dirty, it can make the braking system less effective. Brake fluid can also become contaminated with rust or other debris if it isn’t flushed regularly. In some cases, this can cause the brakes to stop working altogether.
If you’re not sure whether you need to flush your brake fluid, take your car in for a tune-up. Your mechanic can check your braking system and tell you whether you need to flush it.
How to Flush Brake Fluid
Many people believe that brake fluid should be flushed every time the brakes are serviced, but is this really necessary? The short answer is no, but there are a few reasons why you might want to flush your brake fluid anyway.
One reason to flush your brake fluid is if you notice a decrease in braking performance. This could be the result of old or dried out brake fluid, and flushing it will restore the proper level of performance. Additionally, if you ever have to replace your brake pads or discs, the old brake fluid will get smeared all over the new parts and can make installation difficult. Flushing it out will help avoid any problems during installation.
Another reason to flush your brake fluid is if you notice an increase in noise or feel a vibration when you apply the brakes. This could be the result of metal on metal contact, and flushing it out will help remove any contaminants that may be causing the problem. In some cases, this may also fix the issue entirely.
So although flushing your brake fluid isn’t alwaysnecessary, it can sometimes solve problems and improveperformance.
When Should I Flush Brake Fluid?
There is no one definitive answer to this question, as it depends on a variety of factors, including the make and model of your car, how often you drive, and the severity of the brake fluid leak. However, it’s generally a good idea to flush your brake fluid every 3-5 years or when there is an indication of a more severe leak.
Here are some tips to help you determine when you should flush your brake fluid:
-If you experience any unusual rattling or vibrations from your brakes – especially when applying the brakes hard – it’s likely that there is a more serious problem with the system and you should flush the fluid.
-If your car has recently been in a accident or has sustained heavy damage – such as from a hail storm – it’s important to flush the brake fluid as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
-If you notice an increase in noise or dust from the brakes – possibly indicating that there is a more serious leak – it’s time to flush the system.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the decision of whether or not to flush brake fluid depends on a variety of factors specific to your vehicle. However, in general, it is generally recommended that you flush brake fluid every 5,000 miles or once every two years, whichever comes first. By doing so, you are ensuring that your brakes are functioning at their best and that any residual lubricant has been removed.