How often should brake fluid be changed?
2 Answers
Brake fluid should be changed every 40,000 kilometers or every 3 years. If the local area has frequent rainy and humid weather, it is recommended to change it every 30,000 kilometers or every 2 years. If not changed for a long time, the brake fluid will become turbid and gradually absorb moisture from the air, causing its boiling point to lower significantly, which can easily lead to brake failure. When changing the brake fluid, you can check on-site whether the brake fluid is of good quality by placing a metal wire in the brake fluid for an hour and then checking if it rusts. If it rusts, the fluid is of poor quality, as genuine brake fluid does not corrode metal. Brake fluid is a liquid medium used in hydraulic braking systems to transmit braking pressure, essential for vehicles with hydraulic braking systems and an indispensable part of the braking process.
Having driven for many years, I've learned that brake fluid replacement is no trivial matter. I still remember my first experience - after driving for over three years, I noticed the brakes felt spongy and there was an unsettling empty sensation when stopping. Scared, I immediately went to the repair shop. The mechanic diagnosed that the brake fluid had absorbed moisture, lowering its boiling point, which could potentially cause brake failure under high temperatures. The standard recommendation is to replace it every two years or after 40,000 kilometers. Now I get its moisture content checked during annual maintenance. You can also buy a small testing pen - if it exceeds 3%, it's time for replacement. Driving conditions make a big difference: frequent braking in city traffic wears it faster, while long highway trips carry higher risks. A replacement costs about 200-300 yuan - this small investment for peace of mind is far better than risking an accident. Safety comes first, don't procrastinate. I suggest you develop a habit of regular maintenance too.
