How to Replace Brake Fluid?
3 Answers
Here are the steps to replace brake fluid: Turn off the vehicle, open the engine compartment hood, and use a syringe to extract the fluid from the reservoir until it reaches the bottom; Fill the reservoir with new brake fluid; Use a jack to lift the vehicle, starting with the rear wheels, and remove the tires; Locate the bleeder screw on the brake caliper and remove the rubber dust cap; Loosen the bleeder screw with a wrench, attach a rubber tube to it, and connect the other end to a drain bottle; Inside the vehicle, start pumping the brakes. When the fluid coming out of the rubber tube is the lighter-colored new fluid, the fluid replacement for that wheel is complete. Stop pumping the brakes, reinstall the tire, and repeat this process for the remaining three wheels; After all four wheels have been bled, check the fluid level in the engine compartment reservoir. If it has reached the lower limit, add new brake fluid as needed.
I've changed my brake fluid at home a few times, and it's been quite interesting. Prepare new brake fluid, hoses, containers, and wrenches, ensuring the car is parked on level ground with the handbrake on and the wheels blocked to prevent movement. Open the hood and locate the brake fluid reservoir, first removing some old fluid or directly adding new fluid. It's best to have a friend assist, but if not, proceed slowly on your own. Start with the rear wheel caliper, as it's farthest from the reservoir and prone to air issues. Use a wrench to remove the wheel and locate the bleeder screw, attaching a hose with the other end in a container. Have your friend press and hold the brake pedal for a few seconds to stabilize the pressure, then you open the screw to let the old fluid drain, ensuring the reservoir is continuously topped up with new fluid to avoid running dry. Repeat the process for each wheel until the fluid runs clear and bubble-free. Finally, check that all screws are tightened, cap the reservoir, and test the brake pedal for firmness. Remember to change the brake fluid every two years, as it absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point and affecting performance, especially in rainy conditions or long drives. With the right tools and careful operation, you can save money and learn a useful skill.
As a long-time car enthusiast, here are the key points I'd remind you when changing brake fluid: Prepare DOT 4 specification brake fluid and tools like hoses, containers, and wrenches. Parking the car in a safe location is crucial. Open the hood to locate the master cylinder reservoir and have new fluid ready to prevent drying out. The operation sequence starts from the wheel farthest away, usually the rear axle tire caliper. Remove the wheel, connect the hose to the bleeder screw with a container underneath, then open the screw to let the fluid flow. Have a partner in the driver's seat pump the brake pedal a few times to build and maintain pressure. During bleeding, observe the fluid flow until it turns to fresh fluid and stops, indicating old fluid is expelled without air entering the system. Repeat this process for each wheel without skipping. After completion, top up the reservoir and test the brake pedal feel for firmness. Residual air may cause spongy brakes leading to accidents, so be meticulous. For regular maintenance, consider changing every two years or 20,000 kilometers. Older fluid absorbs moisture and becomes ineffective, affecting stopping distance. If unsure as a beginner, it's more reliable to seek guidance from a professional technician at a shop.
