Brake fluid flushes are an important part of regular car maintenance, and they should be done at least every 3 years, or when the brake fluid looks or smells funny. Here’s a guide on when to get your brake fluid flush and the effects it can have on your car.
Why Get a Brake Fluid Flush?
If you have a car that’s older than 10 years, you should get a brake fluid flush. Brake fluid gets dirty over time, and this can cause your brakes to not work as well. A brake fluid flush will clean out all of the old brake fluid, and your brakes will work better for the long term.
The Signs You Need a Brake Fluid Flush
Most drivers don’t think about brake fluid until they start experiencing brake problems. But if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to flush your brakes:
– A “ping” or “clicking” noise when you apply the brakes
– Sluggish or difficult braking
– poor stopping power
– Worn or frayed brake pads or rotors
– Difficulty riding the bike in the rain or snow
If any of these conditions are present, it’s time to get a brake fluid flush. Here’s how to do it:
1. Park your bike on a level surface and remove the wheel. Remove the caliper brackets if applicable and disconnect the hoses from the reservoir and calipers. Lift up on the caliper and drain any fluid that may be pooled beneath it. Discard any oldbrake fluid. Install new pads and retighten the caliper bolts. Reattach the hose to the caliper and reattach both brackets. Lower the bike back onto the ground.
2. Fill a container with clean water, add brake cleaner, and stir until dissolved. Screw on a coughen.
How to Do a Brake Fluid Flush Yourself
When should you get a brake fluid flush? The answer is always the same: When your brakes feel squishy or when you get a warning light on your dashboard. Brake fluid can become contaminated with bits of metal, causing your brakes to stop working properly. A brake fluid flush can help clear out the contamination and restore your brakes to their former glory. Here’s how to do it yourself:
To perform a brake fluid flush, start by removing the wheel and tire from the car. This will make it easier to reach all of the brake lines.
Next, loosen the hose clamp connecting the brake line to the reservoir. Feed the end of the hose through the clamp and let it hang down below the reservoir.
Turn on the water supply to the reservoir and wait until it starts flowing freely. Carefully remove the hose from below the reservoir and let it fill up with water.
Put on safety glasses and gloves and open up the bleed nipple on the side of the reservoir nearest to where you removed the wheel and tire. Pour a steady stream of water into the nipple until you see bubbles coming out of it. (Be careful not to pour too much water at once.
What to Expect After the Brake Fluid Flush
When you get a brake fluid flush, your mechanic will add new brake fluid to the system. The old fluid will be flushed out and the system will be refilled with new fluid. You should expect the following after a brake fluid flush:
-A reduction in brake pedal travel distance
-A better braking response
-Less pedal feel required to stop the car