Why and How Often Do You Need to Change Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is a vital safety component of your car that is designed to ensure your brakes work effectively whenever you need them. It may not seem all that exciting, but it is very important. Find out more about why you need brake fluid and how often you should be changing it.

What does brake fluid do?

When using your car, you expect the car to stop when you hit the brakes and it is the brake fluid making this happen. It is the medium through which the pressure you put on the brake pedal that then travels through the brake calipers is transferred to the pads, then onto the brake discs to make you stop. Brake fluid contains corrosion inhibitors that prevent any of the metal components in the braking system from rusting.

Why do you need to change brake fluid?

Your brake fluid can absorb water over time, and this is going to directly affect the boiling point. Brake fluid can get very hot during constant use, especially when you need to brake hard. If water does get into the fluid, it will start to boil, and the effectiveness of the brakes can become compromised. If you are checking your brake fluid regularly and topping it up when you need to or changing the brake fluid regularly you will reduce the risk of this happening.

How often do I need to change my brake fluid?

Generally, it is recommended that you need to change your brake fluid every two years. However, to be on the safe side, you need to check the manufacturer’s recommendation as they will all be different. A manufacturer may recommend that you change your fluid every 20,000 miles or every 2 years, depending on which one comes first. Another manufacturer may recommend you simply change the brake fluid every 3 years regardless of the mileage.

Brake fluid lives in a sealed system and can last for years, however as we mention the moisture from outside air can work its way through the many parts of the brake system so regular upkeep is important.

Brake fluid replacement near me

If you have read this and think it’s time you should be replacing your brake fluid, it’s best you have this looked at by a professional. Thankfully, we can help you find one! Enter your reg number to day to find garages in your local area! www.mycarneedsa.com/get-a-quote/