![]() A well-trained, professional mechanic will know all the ins and outs of how to handle your brake fluid properly and safely. ![]() It must be handled and disposed of properly. Another challenge is that brake fluid is toxic and combustible. It’s important to make sure the fluid is completely drained and then replaced with the proper type for your vehicle. There are many types of brake fluids with different ratings and specifications, and they can’t be mixed. There are several reasons why, but it all boils down to brake fluid being more complicated and dangerous to work with than more DIY items such as oil and windshield wiper fluid. Unlike many simple maintenance tasks that can be do-it-yourself options, brake fluid should only be changed by someone with professional training. Can You Change the Fluid Yourself, or Should You Have a Mechanic Do It? Signs that you should get your brake fluid checked immediately include fluid that has a burnt odor, is not clear or transparent, or is at a lower level than it’s supposed to be. But a good rule of thumb is to check it during regular oil changes, and expect to change it every four to five years. The timing varies by type of car, the driving conditions you typically encounter, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. There is no set time to change the brake fluid in your vehicle. This is one reason it’s helpful to have a professional, trained mechanic take care of this for you. You don’t want to open the cap unless you’re replacing the fluid, because exposing the reservoir to air can draw moisture into the hydraulics system. How Do You Check It?īrake fluid is typically stored in a translucent plastic reservoir, so you can see the fluid level without removing the cap. The fluid can absorb moisture, which can lead to corrosion in your hydraulics system and other problems that make your brakes less effective, decreasing your ability to stop in critical driving situations. Like oil, brake fluid loses its effectiveness over time. If the levels of fluid are low, contaminated by moisture, or not flowing properly, your braking power is impeded. As simple as it sounds, stopping a vehicle is demanding, and brake fluid is a key part of the equation. What Does Brake Fluid Do for a Car?īrake fluid helps move the parts in your vehicle’s hydraulic (brake) system, which enables your car to stop when you hit the brake pedals. Here are some tips and facts to answer your most frequently asked questions. Customers often wonder whether it’s necessary to change the fluid and if so, how often it needs to be done. If you have questions about brake fluid, you’re not alone. Yet proper maintenance of your vehicle includes caring for this essential fluid. But brake fluid? Many car owners forget it even exists. Squeaky brakes get attention, and so does a car that seems to be taking longer to stop than is normally necessary. Most people know that routine car care involves checking the brakes.
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