When Should Brake Fluid Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Here are the situations when brake fluid needs to be replaced: 1. While driving, if the brake warning light alerts or flashes during emergency braking or continuous braking, but the frequency is intermittent, it may be caused by insufficient brake fluid, requiring timely inspection and replacement. 2. During emergency braking, if the braking distance is significantly longer than before, and after ruling out the factor of brake pads, it may be due to the brake fluid. It is recommended that the owner address this issue promptly to avoid problems during braking. 3. When pressing the brake pedal, if there is a feeling of softness or lack of power, it may be caused by deteriorated brake fluid, especially during continuous or frequent braking. If the brake feels much softer than before and has elasticity, it needs to be addressed immediately. 4. If there is an inconsistent feeling of lightness and heaviness during braking, it may be due to deteriorated brake fluid. Excessive moisture in the brake fluid can cause high temperatures during braking, turning the water in the brake fluid into steam, which may lead to unstable braking performance.
Having driven for over a decade, I find brake fluid replacement timing crucial. During routine car inspections, I noticed that brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air and gradually turns cloudy, which lowers its boiling point. Once, I forgot to change the fluid, and during aggressive driving, the brakes felt spongy—nearly causing an accident. Only later did I learn the fluid had absorbed too much water. I recommend replacing it every two years or 30,000 kilometers—don’t delay. Additionally, if you notice longer braking distances, a soft pedal feel, or dark-colored fluid in the reservoir, those are clear signals it’s time for a change. In humid regions, more frequent checks are essential to ensure driving safety. Remember, small maintenance prevents major hazards.
