Is It Serious If Brake Fluid Is Not Changed for 6 Years?
3 Answers
Not changing the brake fluid for 6 years will have negative effects. Generally, brake fluid should be replaced every 3 years or 50,000 kilometers. Below are the specific impacts of long-term failure to change brake fluid: 1. Corrosion of the braking system. Brake fluid itself is hydrophilic and prone to absorbing water. If not changed for a long time, the brake fluid can corrode the braking system, posing significant safety risks. 2. Formation of brake vapor lock. After absorbing water, the boiling point of brake fluid decreases, which can easily lead to insufficient braking pressure and affect braking performance. When the temperature rises to the boiling point, the water inside the brake fluid will boil, generating a large number of bubbles. 3. Clogging of the brake system. Prolonged failure to change the brake fluid can cause deposits and impurities in the brake lines to result in brake system malfunctions, affecting braking performance.
I remember decades of repairing cars and have seen many accidents caused by brake fluid that hasn't been changed for too long. Not changing it for 6 years is definitely serious. Brake fluid easily absorbs moisture, and when there's too much water, the boiling point drops. During emergency braking, the fluid can boil and create bubbles, causing the pedal to feel spongy and significantly increasing the braking distance. If you end up in a rear-end collision, it could be dangerous. The moisture also corrodes components of the braking system like calipers and valve bodies, and repairs can cost thousands. I recommend testing the water content immediately. If it exceeds the standard, replace it right away—generally, every two years is enough. Don't underestimate it; safe driving is the top priority.
As an ordinary driver who often takes the family on road trips, I believe this issue concerns everyone's safety. Not changing the brake fluid for 6 years allows moisture buildup, which can drastically lower the boiling point. During rainy days or sudden braking on mountain roads, brake failure becomes a real risk—it's terrifying to think about. I once had a close call due to negligence, and now I strictly follow the manual's recommendation to inspect and replace it every two years. The maintenance costs just over a hundred bucks, but it prevents major risks. Life is more precious than saving on fluid costs—don't procrastinate.
