How Often Should the Original Brake Fluid Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Brake fluid should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers or 3 years. Here are some precautions for brake fluid usage: Do not mix different types: Do not mix different types or brands of brake fluid. Due to differences in formulations, mixing brake fluids can lead to a decline in performance. Replace if water content is high: If the brake fluid absorbs moisture or contains impurities, it should be replaced or filtered promptly. Otherwise, it may result in insufficient braking pressure and affect braking performance. Replace after prolonged use: For vehicles driven normally for 40,000 kilometers or with brake fluid used continuously for over 3 years, the brake fluid is prone to deterioration due to prolonged use and should be replaced in a timely manner.
I've been driving for over a decade and have some experience to share about brake fluid replacement intervals. Factory brake fluid typically needs changing every 2-3 years or 50,000 kilometers - that's the standard recommendation for most vehicles. Brake fluid easily absorbs moisture from the air, and when it absorbs too much, its boiling point drops. During hard braking, the high temperatures can cause it to boil and create vapor bubbles, making the brakes feel spongy or even fail completely. I learned this the hard way when I neglected to change mine for 4 years - my brakes became unresponsive on the highway and I nearly rear-ended someone. Now I make it a habit to change it every two years without fail. In humid climates like southern China, you might need to change it even more frequently, perhaps every 18 months. The cost is minimal, usually just a few hundred yuan, which is far cheaper than the thousands you'd spend repairing the brake system later. Safety should always come first - don't risk big problems over small savings.
As an actual car owner, the brake fluid replacement interval should be based on the manufacturer's manual, typically every 2 to 3 years or every 50,000 kilometers. Brake fluid is like a water-absorbing sponge - accumulated moisture lowers its boiling point, which may cause brake failure in emergencies. Cost-wise, replacement ranges from 200 to 500 RMB, quite affordable. I usually have technicians check it annually during maintenance using a boiling point tester, replacing if exceeded - much cheaper than repairing the master cylinder later. If you frequently brake hard or drive in rainy areas, the interval should be shorter. Maintaining this small habit ensures smooth and worry-free vehicle operation.
