If your Honda Crv has exhibited any of the following symptoms, it may be time to flush the brake fluid:
-The pedal feels spongy or weak when applied
-The brakes are difficult to apply, especially at low speeds
-The car seems to lose power as you apply the brakes
What is brake fluid and what does it do?
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that helps to apply the brakes. It is used to stop or slow a vehicle. Brake fluid is also used to check and adjust the brake system.
Brake fluid is normally flushed every 3 to 6 months, depending on the driving habits and type of car. The best way to flush your brake system is to use a regular garden hose with a spray nozzle attachment. Be sure to spray the entire system, including the calipers and disks. Allow the system to sit for at least 30 minutes before you drive.
How to tell if your brake fluid is low
If you’re having trouble braking, it’s important to check the fluid level first. Brake fluid is a vital component of your car’s braking system, and low levels can cause problems. Here’s how to tell if your brake fluid is low:
1) Park your car in a safe place, so you don’t have to brake hard.
2) Put the car in “Park” or “Neutral” (if it has manual transmission).
3) Release the emergency brake.
4) Push down on the pedal until the brakes are fully engaged.
5) Let go of the pedal. If the car slows down within a few seconds, your brake fluid may be low. If it takes longer than a few seconds for the car to slow down, your fluid may be too high and you’ll need to replace it.
How to flush your brake fluid
In order to maintain optimum braking performance, it is important to flush your brake fluid every 3-6 months, depending on the type and make of your car. Here is a guide on how to flush your brake fluid:
1. Park the car in a safe location.
2. Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
3. Remove the cap (A) from the master cylinder reservoir.
4. Pour about 2 cups of fresh brake fluid into the reservoir (B). Do not overfill.
5. Replace the cap and turn on the engine. Let it idle until the fluid starts to flow back into the reservoir (C). If there is too much fluid in the reservoir, Brake Master may need to be serviced or replaced. If there is not enough fluid in the reservoir, add more until there is enough. DO NOT OVERFILL!
6. Check for leaks after filling and before turning off engine by pressing down on pedal slowly and listening for a hiss or noise coming from system.
What to do if you overflush your brake fluid
If you overflush your brake fluid, it may result in a reduction in braking effectiveness. To restore braking effectiveness, you will need to flush the brake fluid system and replace any that was overflowed.
Conclusion
If your car has ABS, it’s important to flush the brake fluid every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. According to Brakemaster, “Brake fluid is an important part of the braking system and should be treated as such.” The manufacturer provides specific information on when and how often toflush the brake fluid in their owner’s manual.