What Is a Brake Fluid Flush?

Brake fluid is one of the many fluids that keep your vehicle performing safely when you’re driving around Salisbury, Mooresville, Huntersville, and Lexington. But what is a brake fluid flush? Cloninger Toyota is here to explain what a brake fluid flush is, why it’s important, and when your brake fluid needs to be flushed.  Schedule a service appointment today!

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How Brake Fluid Works

When you hit the brakes on your car, the force of your foot on the brake pedal is multiplied through a hydraulic system, which then applies that power to your brake pads to slow you down. For this system to work smoothly, the hydraulic fluid in this system—the brake fluid—needs to maintain a certain consistency and volume across a range of temperatures.

Your brake fluid exists in a sealed system, but water can still make its way into this system over time. This moisture can decrease your brakes’ ability to bring you to a stop, especially at high temperatures. It can also corrode various components of your brake system, introducing more contaminants to the fluid and decreasing the lifespan of your brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, and more.

What Is a Brake Fluid Flush?

A brake fluid flush completely removes the contaminated brake fluid from your system by replacing it with clean brake fluid. After adding the new brake fluid, your auto mechanic will bleed the brakes to make sure there’s no air in the lines.

This is followed by a visual inspection of the brake pads, rotors, and hoses to make sure there are no leaks. Finally, the technician at our service center should take your car for a quick test drive to ensure the brakes are working properly.

When to Change Brake Fluid

Recommendations vary from vehicle to vehicle, so check your owner’s manual to find out when to change the brake fluid in your car. Even if your owner’s manual doesn’t recommend brake fluid flushes at regular intervals, it’s always a good idea to check your brake fluid every two to three years or 20,000 miles. You should also check your brake fluid if your brakes seem squishy or you’ve noticed a decrease in your stopping power.

Brake fluid is generally pretty easy to check, especially in newer cars. First, pop your hood and find the brake fluid reservoir. It’s usually on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, in front of where the brake pedal itself is located.

Clear the cap of any dirt or debris before opening the reservoir to prevent contaminants from falling into the brake fluid. Then, carefully remove the cap and make sure the fluid reaches the “full” line. Make sure not to touch the brake fluid, as it can be toxic. Your brake fluid should be mostly clear in color, with a yellowish tint. If it’s dark brown or black, schedule an appointment to get your brake fluid flushed.

Brake Fluid Flush: Schedule an Appointment Today

Regular brake fluid flushes will help ensure the longevity of your entire brake system—and many times, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in stopping power after getting this fluid replaced. If you need your brake fluid inspected or flushed around Salisbury, Mooresville, Huntersville, or Lexington, contact Cloninger Toyota today.