How Many Liters of Brake Fluid Are Needed for Replacement?
3 Answers
Generally, only 1L of brake fluid is needed for replacement. Here is the relevant information: 1. During replacement, it is necessary to use brake fluid of the same grade as the original vehicle, which is indicated on the brake fluid cap. For example, if the original vehicle uses DOT4, only DOT4 can be used. When replacing brake fluid, it is important to pay attention to the replacement cycle, which varies depending on different climate conditions. Additionally, the choice of brake fluid must be of the same grade, and brake fluids from different brands should not be mixed. 2. Automotive brake fluid is the liquid used in hydraulic brake systems. It must be chemically inert, unaffected by high temperatures, and should not cause corrosion, softening, or swelling to metals and rubber. The commonly used grades are DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5. The volume of brake fluid changes with temperature, so 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 brake fluid that contains moisture.
From my experience, the amount of brake fluid needed for replacement is generally 0.5 to 1 liter for most family sedans. Don't underestimate this - over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point and causing soft or failed brakes. For actual operation, I recommend preparing 1 liter of DOT4 fluid, as some vehicles like SUVs or those with multi-piston systems may require slightly more. The fluid change process is straightforward: lift the car, bleed old fluid from each wheel while a friend helps pump the brake pedal. The key is to completely remove air bubbles using a vacuum tool so the new fluid can work smoothly. Too little fluid won't cover the entire system, causing delayed brake response; too much is wasteful, so 1 liter is usually safe. Don't wait until brake problems occur - regular replacement every 2 years or 40,000 km is ideal maintenance.
Changing brake fluid by yourself is quite rewarding! Typically, prepare 0.5 to 1 liter depending on your car model—compact cars like the Fit need 0.5 liters, while SUVs like the CR-V may require 1 liter. I recommend using DOT4 fluid for its strong compatibility—don't skimp on this. The steps are straightforward: get the fluid and bleeding tools, find an assistant to press the brake pedal while you handle the bleeding. Work on one wheel at a time until fresh fluid flows out, ensuring no air enters the system. Common DIY mistakes include inaccurate fluid measurement or incomplete air bleeding, leading to brake failure. It's advisable to change it every two years to avoid risks—safety is no small matter, and precision brings peace of mind.
