How many kilometers to change brake fluid?
3 Answers
Brake fluid should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers. The method for replacing brake fluid is: 1. Park the vehicle on level ground and turn off the engine, then open the engine compartment cover and drain the fluid from the reservoir; 2. Use a funnel to fill the reservoir with new brake fluid; 3. Use a jack to lift the vehicle and start removing the tires from the rear wheels; 4. Remove the rubber dust cap on the brake caliper; 5. Loosen the bleeder screw with a wrench and attach a rubber tube to it, connecting it to a drain bottle; 6. Press the brake pedal inside the vehicle while observing the fluid drainage until the fluid level in the engine compartment reservoir reaches the lower limit. Situations requiring brake fluid replacement include: 1. The brake fluid has absorbed moisture or contains impurities; 2. When the vehicle experiences inconsistent braking during normal driving, the brake fluid should be replaced promptly; 3. The caliper piston boot is excessively swollen; 4. Replace the brake fluid every two years.
As a long-time driver, I can tell you that brake fluid replacement isn't just about mileage. It's generally recommended to change it every two years or around 30,000 kilometers. The reason is that brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and when it absorbs too much, its boiling point drops. At high temperatures, it can vaporize, leading to brake failure – how dangerous is that! This is a common issue with older cars, and I've seen cases where braking distance increased or even complete failure occurred. Don't just focus on mileage; time is also crucial because moisture absorption happens through air contact, and the fluid deteriorates even when the car isn't driven. It doesn't cost much to replace, and the most reliable way is to have a repair shop test its moisture content. In short, safe driving requires regular maintenance – don't risk big trouble to save small money.
I'm a car enthusiast who enjoys studying these details. The frequency for brake fluid replacement typically ranges between every two years or 30,000 kilometers, depending on the vehicle model and driving habits. Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point, and frequent braking in city traffic can rapidly increase temperatures, affecting stopping distance. Many owner's manuals recommend this interval, but actual testing with specialized tools to measure moisture content is more accurate. I personally conduct regular checks and prioritize replacement if I notice spongy brakes or unusual noises. Additionally, when replacing, choose DOT4 standard fluid for better compatibility. Don't just focus on mileage—maintaining it properly to ensure driving safety is what matters most.
