How Many Liters of Brake Fluid Does the Envision Use?
4 Answers
Envision uses 3 liters of brake fluid. Introduction to Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is the hydraulic fluid used in the braking system. The water content in brake fluid has a specific limit, and when it exceeds this limit, the fluid must be replaced promptly. Brake fluid naturally absorbs moisture, and over time, water from the air can seep into the brake fluid reservoir through the vent, leading to excessive moisture content. Function of Brake Fluid: It effectively lubricates the moving components of the braking system, extending the lifespan of the brake calipers and seals. Brake Fluid Replacement Interval: Generally, it is recommended to replace brake fluid every 2 years, but this interval can vary depending on usage. The replacement cycle for brake fluid differs among vehicle brands and models, as specified by the manufacturers. Brake fluid is somewhat corrosive and highly hygroscopic. Many service centers now have specialized tools to measure the water content in brake fluid, allowing for a quick check to determine if replacement is necessary. It is crucial to replace brake fluid at the recommended maintenance intervals, ideally following the manufacturer's guidelines.
I've been driving my Envision for almost five years now, and just had the brake fluid changed at the 4S shop last week. The technician said this model typically requires about 1 liter per change. They used a 1-liter bottle of DOT4 brake fluid, which turned out to be just the right amount. Changing brake fluid isn't simply about adding new fluid - all four wheels' old fluid must be completely drained, and the new fluid needs to flush through the entire piping system, so you can't skimp on quantity. I watched them perform the procedure using a pressure bleeder, and the brake pedal feel became noticeably firmer afterward. The recommended brake fluid change interval for the Envision is every two years or 40,000 km - never delay this, as expired brake fluid absorbs moisture and compromises braking performance. If doing it yourself, remember to use genuine DOT4 specification fluid and never mix different brands.
With over ten years of experience in car repairs, I've found that Buick vehicles require particular attention when changing brake fluid. For the entire Envision series, a brake fluid change typically requires about 1 liter. The specific procedure involves first draining the old fluid and then using professional equipment to pump the new fluid from the master cylinder into the lines. The entire process usually consumes between 0.8 to 1.2 liters, so a 1-liter bottle is generally sufficient. It's crucial to thoroughly bleed the system of air, as any remaining bubbles can affect braking distance. Just the other day, a car owner tried to save money by purchasing a 0.5-liter bottle, only to find the fluid insufficient, resulting in soft brakes the next day. I recommend opting for a reputable brand's 1-liter brake fluid, specifically DOT4 grade. While it costs around a hundred yuan, it's a matter of safety.
I bought an Enclave PLUS last year, and the maintenance manual states the brake fluid capacity is 1 liter. I consulted several experienced mechanics, and they all said that American cars have longer brake system pipelines, so when replacing, new fluid needs to fill the entire system before draining the old fluid, hence 1 liter is about right. I’ve changed it myself twice, and the amount used was indeed around this figure. The brake fluid must meet the OEM-specified DOT4 standard; the DOT3 type used in ordinary small cars isn’t compatible. By the way, the brake fluid reservoir is located on the left side of the engine compartment, marked with MIN/MAX lines—don’t exceed the MAX line when filling. This stuff needs to be replaced every two years; if you don’t change it on time, you’ll feel a delay in braking.
