Brake fluid can dry out and cause your brakes to stop working properly. Flushing and replacing the brake fluid every 3-5 years is recommended by most car manufacturers. However, is it really necessary? In this article, we explore the pros and cons of flushing and replacing brake fluid on your car.
What Is Brake Fluid?
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used to stop or slow a vehicle. It’s used in both hydraulic and mechanical brakes. Brake fluid contains glycol and mineral oil.
How Often Should Brake Fluid be Flushed?
There is no one answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, the type of brake fluid used, and how often you drive your car. However, generally speaking, it is recommended that brake fluid be flushed and replaced every 3 to 6 months, depending on the specific circumstances.
What Does Flushing and Replacing Brake Fluid Do?
When your car brakes, fluid is forced through the brake lines to the calipers. Over time this fluid can become dirty and cause the brakes to drag. Brake fluid can also corrode the pistons, causing them to wear out prematurely. Flushing and replacing brake fluid every 3-5 years is generally recommended by most automakers.
When To Replace Brake Fluid in a Car
If your car has a brake fluid warning light and you haven’t replaced the brake fluid in the past few years, it’s time to do so. Brake fluid is a natural petroleum product that helps keep your brakes from seizing up. Your car’s braking system uses hydraulic pressure to slow or stop the vehicle. When hydraulic pressure is applied to a brake line, it causes the brake fluid to squirt out through the calipers and into the master cylinder. The brake line contains metal parts that can corrode if the brake fluid isn’t replaced on a regular basis. Over time, this corrosion can cause leaks and reduced braking performance. In some cases, it can even cause your car to stop working altogether.
Conclusion
There is some debate over whether or not it is necessary to flush and replace brake fluid on a regular basis. However, from what I have read, most experts recommend doing so in order to keep your brakes working properly and to prevent them from seizing up. If you do plan on flushing and replacing brake fluid on a regular basis, be sure to get the right kind – DOT 4 vs DOT 5 – for your car.