How often should brake fluid be changed in a sedan?
1 Answers
The replacement cycle for brake fluid varies among different vehicle models, so always refer to the owner's manual. Generally, for family cars, it is recommended to change the brake fluid every 40,000 kilometers or every 3 years. If the vehicle is frequently used in rainy regions, the replacement interval should be shortened accordingly. You can periodically open the hood to check if the brake fluid level is low. If you top up the brake fluid and it runs low again shortly after, you should immediately inspect for any leaks. Here are methods to determine if the brake fluid needs replacement: 1. Visual Inspection: Open the brake fluid reservoir cap. If the brake fluid appears cloudy or black, it must be replaced immediately. 2. Hard Braking Test: Drive the car at a speed above 40 km/h and then brake hard. If the braking distance noticeably increases, it usually indicates an issue with the brake fluid, and you should check whether it needs replacement. 3. Soft or Unstable Braking During Normal Driving: If the brake pedal feels soft when pressed, it's time to consider changing the brake fluid. Deteriorated brake fluid can cause the brake pedal to feel spongy even when fully depressed. Frequent braking generates high temperatures, turning absorbed moisture in the brake fluid into vapor and creating air bubbles, which can lead to unstable braking performance.
