What is Brake Fluid and How Often Should It Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Brake fluid, also known as hydraulic brake fluid, is the liquid that transmits force in a vehicle's braking system. The replacement interval is typically two years, though some manufacturers specify two years or 40,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Specific details can be found in the maintenance manual. In essence, whether brake fluid needs replacement depends mainly on its water content. More information about brake fluid is as follows: Introduction: Brake fluid is an essential component of the braking system. Frequent braking during driving generates significant frictional heat, raising the temperature of the braking system. Maintenance Notes: Brake fluid is highly hygroscopic. Over time, a large number of air bubbles can form in the brake lines, significantly impairing the performance of the braking system. Since the braking system generates high temperatures during operation, water in the brake fluid can vaporize, making the gas easily compressible. This can lead to dangerous phenomena such as spongy brakes or reduced braking power. During each maintenance service, a brake fluid tester should be used to assess the condition of the brake fluid.
I remember when I was fixing my car, I found out that brake fluid is a special liquid in the braking system. It’s responsible for transferring the pressure from stepping on the brake pedal to the wheels to help the car stop. This stuff easily absorbs moisture from the air, and over time, its boiling point decreases. During high-speed braking, it can produce bubbles, making the brakes feel soft or even fail, which is quite dangerous. I recommend changing it every two years or so, or follow the specific advice in the owner’s manual—usually every 20,000 to 40,000 kilometers is fine. Don’t ignore it; regularly check its color—if it turns dark brown, it means it’s too dirty and needs replacing. Otherwise, repairing the brake discs could be much more expensive. From my experience, adding a brake fluid change as a small maintenance item can save a lot of hassle, ensuring safety and reliability during rainy days or long trips.
