How many bottles of brake fluid are needed for a single replacement?
2 Answers
Only 1L of brake fluid is required for replacement. It is essential to use brake fluid of the same grade as originally specified for the vehicle, which is indicated on the brake fluid cap. For example, if the original specification is DOT4, only DOT4 should be used. When replacing brake fluid, attention must be paid to the replacement interval, which varies depending on different climatic conditions. The selection of brake fluid must adhere to the same grade, and mixing different brands of brake fluid is not allowed. For detailed information, please refer to the following: 1. Automotive brake fluid is the liquid used in hydraulic braking systems: It must be chemically inert, unaffected by high temperatures, and should not cause corrosion, softening, or swelling to metals and rubber. Commonly used grades include DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5. 2. Precautions: The volume of brake fluid changes with temperature variations. Therefore, the brake fluid reservoir is equipped with a vent hole. The air drawn in through this hole may contain moisture or impurities, which can be absorbed or dissolved by the brake fluid, thereby lowering the boiling point of the contaminated brake fluid. 3. Reasons for regular brake fluid replacement: During prolonged driving and braking, the temperature of the braking system rises, which can lead to vapor lock in the brake lines due to compressed air. This may result in reduced braking efficiency or brake failure, making regular replacement of brake fluid necessary.
This depends on the vehicle model and operation method. Generally, 1 to 2 liters of brake fluid are needed for family cars. The common small packages available in the market are 355ml or 500ml bottles, so you'll need to prepare about 2 to 4 bottles. Last time when I took my German car for maintenance, the technician used 3 and a half bottles, explaining that it was necessary to completely drain the old fluid. If you're only replacing part of the fluid or if the car is relatively small, 1 bottle might suffice, but in most cases, I recommend preparing at least 2 bottles. Remember to choose new fluid that meets the DOT4 standard, and don't mix different brands. After replacement, it's crucial to bleed the system thoroughly to remove air bubbles, otherwise the brake pedal might feel spongy - this is a major safety concern.
