How often should brake fluid be changed in a car?
2 Answers
The replacement time for brake fluid in a car can be divided into the following two situations: 1. The recommended replacement cycle for brake fluid is every 2 years or when the vehicle reaches 40,000 kilometers in mileage. 2. Another suggestion is that if the car is driven in tropical regions, the brake fluid should be changed every 60,000 kilometers. Reasons for replacement and precautions: 1. Brake fluid tends to deteriorate over time, leading to cloudiness, a decrease in boiling point, and reduced effectiveness. 2. After prolonged use, the brake pump may experience varying degrees of wear, making it advisable to replace the brake fluid. 3. Timely replacement of brake fluid is crucial for driving safety and should not be taken lightly. Therefore, the decision to replace brake fluid should at least be based on actual conditions. 4. Low-quality brake fluid contains more impurities, which can accelerate wear on the brake pump and cause blockages in the brake system's oil lines. Expired brake fluid also provides less-than-ideal braking performance, but drivers may not notice this due to long-term adaptation to their vehicle's condition.
I'm totally qualified to answer this question, as I learned the hard way last year. I drove my car for three or four years without changing the brake fluid, and one rainy day, the brakes noticeably softened. It wasn't until I asked the 4S shop that I learned brake fluid absorbs water like a sponge, taking in about 3% moisture annually. Higher water content lowers the boiling point, making it prone to vapor lock during continuous braking, which can lead to brake failure. Manufacturers recommend changing it every two years or 40,000 kilometers—it's crucial. I've since made it a habit to test the moisture content during every annual service. For those in humid southern regions or who frequently drive on mountain roads, it's best to check every year and a half. Remember, brakes are life-saving; never risk it to save a couple hundred bucks.
