Brake fluid is a vital ingredient in your car’s stop system, helping to resist and delay the stopping of your car. When brake fluid begins to smell strange or has low levels of fluid, it’s time to get it flushed and serviced. Here are some guidelines for when you should get your brakes flushed:
If you’re having trouble braking or have been having problems with your car suddenly stopping, then you should definitely have your brakes flushed.
If you’ve had your brake fluid replaced in the last three years, then it’s a good idea to flush them every 30000 miles.
If you’re having trouble with your car starting in cold weather, then it’s a good idea to flush your brakes every year.
What is brake fluid and what does it do?
Brake fluid is a type of fluid that helps to stop your car from moving. It’s made up of water, glycerin, and various chemicals that help to reduce friction. When your brake pads hit the disc, the fluid squirts between them and the caliper.
When you get your brake fluid flushed, the technician will take out all of the old fluid and replace it with new. This will ensure that your brakes are working properly and will stop your car quickly when you need them to.
How brake fluid works
When you brake, the fluid in your brake system squirts out and slows your car. Over time, brake fluid can become thick and gooey, which can cause your car to stop working properly. The good news is that you can easily check your brake fluid level and get it flushed if it’s low or going bad.
When should you flush your brakes?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, but in general, you should flush your brakes every 3-6 months. Brake fluid is consumable and will eventually wear down if not flushed regularly. By flushing your brakes, you will ensure a smooth braking experience and keep your car running smoothly.
To flush your brakes, first remove the cover over the brake fluid reservoir (usually located under the car on the left side). Next, use a funnel to fill the reservoir with brake fluid until it is three-quarters full. Finally, replace the cover and wait 10 minutes for the brake fluid to reach operating temperature.
If you are having trouble with your brakes or notice any sign of wear or rust, it is recommended that you flush them immediately.
Which brake fluid should you use?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding when you should get your brake fluid flushed.
The age of your brake system: Brake fluid becomes less effective the older it gets, so it’s important to flush your system every 3-5 years regardless of how much use you’ve put it through.
The type of braking system you have: If you have disc brakes, you’ll need to flush the system every time you replace the pads, while hydraulic systems require only an annual flushing.
The severity of your braking issues: If your brakes feel spongy or don’t work as well as they used to, it’s probably time to get your brake fluid flushed.
What to do if you can’t get the fluid out
If you’re having trouble getting the brake fluid out, here are a few things to try.
– Remove the cap and use a funnel to pour some fluid into the reservoir. Be sure to avoid getting any on the lines or filter.
– If you can access the brake hose, use a tube wrench to turn it anticlockwise until one end pops out. Use a plunger to suction onto the end of the hose and slowly twist it until you can remove the entire hose. Pour out any fluid that’s in the line.
– If you can’t access the brake line, use a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment to suck out any fluid from inside the calipers.
Conclusion
It is always a good idea to get your brake fluid flushed every 3-6 months, regardless of how often you use your brakes. Brake fluid can become dirty and ineffective over time, which will result in decreased braking power and increased wear on your brakes. By getting your brake fluid flushed regularly, you can prolong the life of your brakes and avoid any potential problems down the road.