Brake fluid flushes are an important part of keeping your car in good shape. A brake fluid flush is a routine maintenance procedure that cleans and lubricates your brake system. This guide will show you how to do a brake fluid flush, step by step.
What is a brake fluid flush?
A brake fluid flush is a procedure that is typically performed on vehicles that have been in storage for an extended period of time. The purpose of the flush is to remove any residual brake fluid from the system, as well as to clean and prevent corrosion of the braking components.
How do you do a brake fluid flush?
When it comes to car maintenance, one of the first things you should do is flush your brake fluid. Brake fluid is a vital component of your car’s braking system, and flushing it regularly will keep your brakes operating at their best. Here’s how to do a brake fluid flush:
1. Park your car in a safe spot and turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and remove the cap on the brake fluid reservoir. Use a funnel to fill up the reservoir until it is three-quarters full. Make sure to use clean water to fill up the reservoir instead of brake fluid, as this will help prevent corrosion.
3. Close the hood and turn on the engine. Wait five minutes for the brakes to cool down before driving away.
When should you do a brake fluid flush?
There are a few times when you might want to do a brake fluid flush on your car: if the brake pads or discs are worn out, if the fluid is brown or has an odor, or if the system isn’t working properly.
A brake fluid flush should be done at least once every two years, but it can be done more often if there are signs that the system isn’t working properly. Here are a few things to watch for:
• You should see a decrease in pedal feel and stopping power as the fluid wears down.
• If the fluid is rusty or has an odor, the system may not be working properly.
• If there is any type of warning light on your dashboard, such as a “check engine” light, your brakes may not be working correctly.
What to expect during a brake fluid flush
If your car is more than six years old, it’s time to flush the brake fluid. Brake fluid is a natural oil and over time it can become thick and goo-like. This can make your brakes less effective and increase the risk of a crash. Follow these steps to flush your brake fluid:
1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Remove the wheel and tire from the car.
3. Open the hood and remove the air intake valve cover (if there is one).
4. Detach or loosen the hoses that connect the reservoir to the calipers (see photo). Be sure to hold onto the banjo bolt that attaches the reservoir to the wheel hub!
5. If you have a booster pump, attach it to one end of the hose and place the other end in the water reservoir. Pump until you hear water flowing out of the other end of the hose, then stop pumping. If you don’t have a booster pump, pour about a gallon of water into the reservoir and turn on your car’s engine.
6. Place one foot on each side of the wheel hub, then pull up