Why Change Brake Fluid?

[DiClayton]

Changing brake fluid is necessary to ensure the vehicle's braking performance and to maintain the car. Brake fluid, also known as hydraulic brake fluid or brake oil, is made from refined diesel distillates combined with thickeners and antioxidants. There are three types of brake fluid: mineral oil-based, alcohol-based, and synthetic. Brake fluid must have good viscosity-temperature properties to function effectively across a wide range of temperatures, along with excellent oxidation stability, anti-foaming properties, resistance to rubber swelling, and anti-rust capabilities. Currently, synthetic brake fluids are predominantly used, which are further categorized into glycol-ether, ester, and silicone-based types, with glycol-ether and ester types being the most commonly used.

[SanMary]

As a seasoned driver, I firmly believe that changing brake fluid is absolutely non-negotiable. Brake fluid is like the blood vessels of a car – over time, it absorbs moisture, which lowers its boiling point. When driving on mountain roads or highways, the heat causes the fluid to form bubbles, making the brakes feel spongy, and in severe cases, they can fail completely. A friend of mine had an accident in the rain because deteriorated brake fluid caused a loss of control. Manufacturers recommend changing it every two years or 30,000 kilometers. I’ve personally checked – old, water-contaminated fluid can corrode the pump and lines, leading to much costlier repairs. Spending a little on regular maintenance for peace of mind is far better than regretting an accident later, especially for older cars. Make it a habit to have the mechanic test the fluid quality during every service – it saves time and hassle.

[McJade]

Back when I was into car modding, I paid close attention to how brake fluid affects performance. Changing the fluid was mainly to prevent the boiling point from dropping—old fluid absorbs moisture, and at high temps, bubbles form, slowing brake response and ruining track acceleration. Fresh fluid has a higher boiling point, ensuring more precise braking, especially on steep descents or during hard stops without fade. I even tested different grades—Dot 4 handles heat better than Dot 3, but both need regular changes, typically every two years. Once the fluid turns from clear to brown, it’s risky; ignoring it can lead to leaks or seized systems. Safety first—I’d advise owners to add it to their checklist, so small oversights don’t wreck the fun.

[OwenMarie]

We female car owners might be a bit more meticulous, changing the brake fluid is for peace of mind during daily commutes. After driving for a long time, the brake pedal feels soft and the car tends to nod easily. The mechanic said the fluid had deteriorated with too much moisture. Moisture corrodes metal components, like damaging the pump and valves, which not only costs a lot to repair but also causes delays. My car gets the brake fluid changed every two years at the 4S shop—it's not expensive but the effect is noticeable, especially with much steadier braking in rainy weather. Particularly when picking up and dropping off kids at school, safety is something money can buy. Developing a habit of checking, like inspecting the fluid level and color during each maintenance, helps prevent unexpected issues.