How Often Should the Brake Fluid in a Focus Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The conditions for replacing the brake fluid in a Focus include the following four aspects: 1. First replacement for new cars: The brake fluid in a Focus should be replaced for the first time at 35,000 kilometers, and then every 40,000 kilometers thereafter. 2. Vehicle warranty period: The vehicle should undergo a full inspection after 3 years or 100,000 kilometers. 3. Free first maintenance for new cars: When a new car reaches 50,000 kilometers, it should be taken to a 4S dealership for a free first maintenance. After that, regular maintenance should be performed every 10,000 kilometers as specified in the manufacturer's maintenance manual. 4. Different driving environments: After driving on rough or harsh road conditions, the maintenance interval should be relatively shortened.
I remember during the years I drove the Focus, the brake fluid replacement cycle was generally every two years, as emphasized by the 4S dealership. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and over time, its boiling point decreases, potentially causing bubbles during heavy braking, leading to softer or ineffective brakes. From my experience, neglecting replacement can result in insufficient braking power at high speeds, which is very dangerous. Especially for compact cars like the Focus, the braking system is sensitive, and maintenance is straightforward: have a professional shop perform a moisture test—if it's within limits, you can delay replacement by a few months. A replacement doesn’t cost much, just a few hundred bucks, but safety comes first. Don’t wait for problems to arise; make it a habit to regularly check the fluid reservoir—replace it if it’s cloudy, protecting yourself and your family.
