How Many Liters of Brake Fluid Are Needed for Replacement?
2 Answers
Generally, 1L of brake fluid is sufficient for replacement. Brake fluid typically needs to be replaced every 40,000 kilometers or every 2 years. It is essential to use brake fluid of the same grade as originally specified for the vehicle, which can be found on the brake fluid cap. When replacing brake fluid, it is crucial to completely remove any air from the system. If air enters the brake pump or hydraulic lines, it can significantly reduce braking performance, posing a serious safety risk. Ensure the drain bolt is securely tightened to prevent leaks, as brake fluid is corrosive and can damage other vehicle components. Brake fluid serves three main functions: First, it has a very low freezing point, ensuring good fluidity in cold temperatures. Second, it has an extremely high boiling point, preventing vapor lock under high-temperature conditions. Third, it undergoes minimal quality changes during use, avoiding corrosion of metal and rubber parts. When purchasing brake fluid, pay attention to its viscosity and color. Avoid using brake fluid that is too thin or colorless and transparent (qualified brake fluid is typically light or dark yellow). Qualified brake fluid is noticeably thicker than water, resembling diluted honey, and spreads slowly when poured onto a glass surface.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I've personally changed brake fluid several times. Generally, most vehicles require 0.5 to 1 liter of new brake fluid, depending on the model: my compact sedan only needs 0.6 liters, while my friend's SUV requires nearly 1 liter. This is because the size of the braking systems varies, and a thorough flush of each wheel's pipeline is necessary when draining the old fluid. Changing it is crucial as brake fluid absorbs moisture and deteriorates over time, increasing the risk of brake failure. Every time I DIY the fluid change, I follow the steps with a helper—first pumping out the old fluid and adding new fluid, ensuring all air is purged to prevent spongy brakes. Remember to use the same DOT standard fluid, replacing it every two years or 30,000 kilometers—a small expense for greater safety and reliability. The whole process takes less than an hour and saves on repair costs.
