Why Change Brake Fluid?
2 Answers
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.
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.
