Brake fluid can become contaminated with dirt, metal shavings, and other debris over time. If this material accumulates in the brake fluid system, it can cause the brakes to fail. This article will show you how to flush the brake fluid system on a 2011 Ford Fusion.
Brake fluid is vital to the function of your car’s braking system.
Brake fluid is vital to the function of your car’s braking system. If it becomes contaminated or low, your brake system may not work properly. Brake fluid can be flushed by following these steps:
1. Park your car on a level surface.
2. Remove the wheel and tire.
3. Disconnect the brake lines at both ends.
4. Raise and lower the car until the brake fluid is at the bottom of the reservoir (or as high as possible).
5. Replace the wheel and tire, reconnect the brake lines, and drive away.
When to replace brake fluid
When it comes to brake maintenance, it’s important to flush the system every 7,500 miles or every three months, whichever comes first. Brake fluid helps to stop the car from skidding and makes the brakes work more effectively.
Ford recommends replacing brake fluid whenever the brakes seem “grabby,” which is a sign that the fluid isn’t working as well as it should. If you’ve had your brakes flushed recently and they still feel grabby, then you may need to replace the brake fluid.
How to flush your brake fluid
If you are having trouble braking and your car is emitting a strange smell, it may be time to flush your brake fluid. Brake fluid is important for stopping the car quickly in case of a emergency. Here are instructions on how to do this:
1. Park your car facing downhill so that the brakes will push the fluid uphill.
2. Remove the cap on the reservoir next to the brake pedal.
3. Pour 1/2 cup of brake fluid into the reservoir.
4. Replace the cap and wait 10 minutes before driving.
Warning signs of a failing brake system
One of the most common problems with Ford Fusion brake systems is brake fluid leakage. If you notice any warning signs of a failing brake system, it is important to take action. Here are some warning signs that your brake fluid may be leaking:
A loss of braking power
Sluggish or erratic braking
A grinding or whining noise when the brakes are applied
Strange odors or smells coming from the brakes
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is important to Flush Brake Fluid Immediately. This will help to fix the problem and prevent a serious accident.
Conclusion
Brake fluid can accumulate on the brake pads over time, causing them to wear down more quickly. To flush brake fluid and improve braking performance, perform the following steps:
1. Park your car in a safe location with the engine off.
2. Remove the front wheel and tire.
3. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel by hand using a wrench (or a breaker bar if you have one).
4. Lift up on the wheel and carefully slide it off of the axle.
5. Pour enough coolant onto the rotor to cover it completely, making sure to avoid getting any liquid into any crevices or onto other components.
6. Replace the wheel, tighten lug nuts, and re-install tire and wheel assembly back on axle.