Should the oil circuit be cleaned when replacing brake fluid?
2 Answers
Replacing brake fluid requires cleaning the oil circuit. When different types of brake fluid are mixed together, it can cause the boiling point of the brake fluid to decrease. Brake fluid replacement cycle: Brake fluid should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers or approximately every 2 years. Moisture or impurities from the air can enter through the vent hole of the oil reservoir, which will lower the boiling point of the brake fluid; during prolonged braking, the brake lines are prone to vapor lock, resulting in reduced braking force or brake failure. Characteristics of brake fluid: It has a low freezing point, ensuring good fluidity in low-temperature conditions; it has an extremely high boiling point, preventing vapor lock in high-temperature conditions; it undergoes minimal quality changes and does not corrode or soften metals and rubber.
I'm a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, and I know the ins and outs of changing brake fluid. Whether to flush the brake lines depends entirely on the vehicle's condition. If you replace it every two years as scheduled, simply drain the old fluid and add new one. However, if the brake fluid turns black and thickens, or if the master cylinder has been disassembled for repairs, you must repeatedly flush the lines with new fluid. Once during maintenance, I noticed the brake fluid had emulsified, so I had the mechanic flush the lines with cleaner before refilling. Now, the brake pedal feels exceptionally responsive. Before changing the fluid, always check the temperature of the brake lines by touch. If it's abnormal, consider a thorough cleaning—don't skimp on small expenses only to invite bigger problems.
