How Many Liters of Brake Fluid Should Be Replaced Generally?
3 Answers
Brake fluid replacement generally requires only 1 to 2 liters. The performance and replacement cycle of brake fluid are as follows: Brake Fluid Performance: Brake fluid, also known as brake liquid or mineral oil brake fluid, possesses properties such as oxidation stability, anti-foaming, anti-rubber swelling, and anti-rust. Brake Fluid Replacement Cycle: The replacement cycle is related to the braking during driving and the vehicle's braking system. Brake fluid has water-absorbing characteristics, and if not replaced for a long time, the safety factor of driving will decrease. If the vehicle is used frequently, the brake fluid can be replaced at around 30,000 kilometers; if the usage frequency is lower, the replacement cycle can be extended accordingly, generally at around 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers.
I've changed the brake fluid in my own car twice, using about 0.8 liters each time. However, this amount really varies by vehicle - my friend's compact car only required half a liter. The mechanic said sedans typically need 0.5 to 1 liter, while larger vehicles like SUVs may require closer to 1 liter. The exact amount depends on the bleeding procedure - machine flushing uses more fluid as it completely purges the old fluid. Last time at the shop, they opened a full 1-liter bottle but returned the remaining quarter bottle to me, properly sealed for future use. It's best to check your vehicle's manual or ask the shop beforehand to avoid waste and save money. Remember to use the same brake fluid specification - mixing types can damage the braking system, so store any leftover fluid separately to prevent contamination.
Based on years of experience in vehicle maintenance, brake fluid replacement typically requires around 1 liter, but the exact amount depends on the method used. Manual bleeding may only need 0.5 to 0.8 liters, while professional equipment for circulation replacement requires close to 1 liter to ensure complete displacement of old fluid. During the actual operation, it's essential to address each wheel's caliper in sequence, expelling old fluid from each, which consumes significantly more fluid than simple top-up. It's crucial to select the correct specification, as common types like DOT3 and DOT4 should never be mixed. After replacement, thorough air bleeding is mandatory; otherwise, the brake pedal may feel spongy. It's recommended to change the brake fluid every two years or 40,000 kilometers, as prolonged use leads to excessive moisture absorption, causing potential failure under high temperatures. The entire process takes about half an hour. Never compromise safety by using substandard fluid to save costs.
