How often should the brake fluid be replaced for a Corolla?
2 Answers
There is no fixed replacement interval for the brake fluid in a Corolla; it should be replaced immediately when the water content reaches 3%. The methods and reasons for determining when to replace the brake fluid are as follows: Methods for determining when to replace the brake fluid: During maintenance, you can ask a technician to test the water content of the brake fluid using professional equipment. A green light on the tester indicates a water content of 0.1-1%; a yellow light indicates 1.5-2.5%; the first red light indicates 3%; the second red light indicates more than 4%. If the tester shows a red light, the brake fluid needs to be replaced. Reasons for replacing the brake fluid: The brake fluid needs to be replaced periodically because over time, it can become contaminated with impurities and moisture, leading to deterioration. Deteriorated brake fluid can weaken braking performance or cause a loss of braking effectiveness.
My Corolla has been running for almost ten years, and I always pay great attention to the maintenance of the brake system. It is recommended to change the brake fluid every two years or 40,000 kilometers because the fluid absorbs moisture from the air over time, which lowers its boiling point. This can lead to the formation of bubbles during braking, affecting braking performance. I remember changing it last month, and the brakes felt more responsive, especially improving safety when driving in the rain. If not replaced in time, it may corrode the brake lines, leading to costly and troublesome repairs. During every maintenance session, I ask the mechanic to check the fluid level and color—if it's cloudy or low, it needs to be replaced. Developing this habit can help avoid major issues.