How to Replace Brake Fluid in a Car?
2 Answers
Car brake fluid replacement steps are: 1. Park the vehicle on level ground and turn off the engine, open the hood and drain the fluid from the reservoir; 2. Use a funnel to fill the reservoir with new brake fluid; 3. Use a jack to lift the vehicle, starting with the rear wheels to remove the tires; 4. Remove the rubber dust cap on the brake caliper; 5. Use a wrench to loosen the bleeder screw and attach a rubber tube to it, connecting it to a drain bottle; 6. Go inside the car and press the brake pedal while observing the fluid drainage until the fluid level in the reservoir under the hood reaches the lower limit; 7. Start the vehicle and test the brakes in a relatively safe area.
I often change the brake fluid myself and find it quite rewarding. The tools needed include the right type of brake fluid, such as DOT4, a bleeder wrench, a hose, and a small container. First, locate the brake fluid reservoir in the engine compartment, clean the opening, and unscrew the cap to prevent contamination. Then, start bleeding from the wheel farthest from the master cylinder, such as the rear wheel. Attach the hose to the bleeder bolt on the brake caliper, with the other end submerged in the container. Have a friend pump the brake pedal a few times and hold the pressure while you loosen the bolt to drain the old fluid until the flow is clear and free of bubbles—ensure the reservoir level never drops below the min line during the process, or air may enter, causing a spongy brake. Repeat the process for each wheel, then top up with new fluid to the max line. After replacement, test the brakes for responsiveness. I recommend changing the fluid every two years to prevent moisture from corroding the lines and affecting braking performance. If you encounter difficulties midway, stop and seek help from a professional shop.
