How to Flush And Change Brake Fluid

Brakes are a crucial part of your car’s safety system – without them, you could wind up in a big accident. But even the best brakes can eventually start to wear down. When this happens, the brake fluid can begin to corrode the brake pads, which can lead to sticking or skidding. Here are instructions on how to flush and change brake fluid on a car.

What is brake fluid?

Brake fluid is a fluid used in brake systems. Brake fluid keeps the brakes working and makes them stop quickly. When brake pads make contact with the rotors, the friction between them creates heat. This heat causes the brake fluid to boil, which makes the brakes work better.

How brake fluid works

Brake fluid is a viscous fluid that helps to stop a car. When you apply the brakes, the car’s brake pedal sends a signal to the car’s braking system. The braking system uses the brake fluid to help stop the car. Brake fluid is made up of two parts: a hydrocarbons and a glycol. Hydrocarbons are made up of molecules that are long and thin. Glycol is a sugar alcohol that is made up of molecules that are short and fat.

When you apply the brakes, the hydrocarbons in the brake fluid move quickly enough to form a liquid film on the metal discs in the car’s brake system. This liquid film helps to stop the car. The glycol in the brake fluid keeps this liquid film from evaporating quickly. This allows you to take your foot off of the brake pedal for a longer period of time without having to worry about your car stopping.

How to flush and change brake fluid

If your car has a manual transmission, you will need to remove the front brake calipers by prying off the two bolts that hold them in place. On most cars, the rear brake calipers are attached with a single bolt. After removing the calipers, take a look inside and at the pistons to see if any fluid is leaking. If so, add new brake fluid and replace the Piston Seal Kit (part number 986548-001) as well. Finally, replace the caliper bolts and washers.

See also  Does Valvoline Do Brake Fluid Flush

If your car has an automatic transmission, you will need to remove the front and rear brake pads. On most cars, the rear pads are held in place by four bolts. After removing the pads, take a look inside and at the pistons to see if any fluid is leaking. If so, add new brake fluid and replace the Brake Pad Seal Kit (part number 986548-003) as well. Finally, replace the bolts and washers.

When should you replace brake fluid?

The brake fluid in your car should be replaced every 3 years or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid and it helps to stop the car by pressing against the brake shoes. When the brake fluid begins to break down, it can cause the brakes to become less effective.

Conclusion

Brake fluid is a critical part of your car’s braking system and it should be changed regularly to ensure that the pads are effective and the system is working as it should. If you have questions about how often brake fluid should be replaced or if you notice any changes in the performance of your brakes, don’t hesitate to consult your mechanic. 

DynoCar is the best place to find information on all things cars, whether it be a car buying guide or how to change your oil. We’ve made finding and staying in touch with car information easy and fast.

Resources

Guides

About Us

Contact

Contact

DynoCar - All About Cars

(440) 999 3699

590 Monterey Blvd San Francisco, CA 94127

Information contained herein is for informational purposes only, and that you should consult with a qualified mechanic or other professional to verify the accuracy of any information. DynoCar.org shall not be liable for any informational error or for any action taken in reliance on information contained herein.