Check your owner’s manual for a recommendation based on your car’s year, model, and brand. There’s no set time for every car, but it’s safe to say that you should replace your brake fluid every two to five years or around 40,000 to 50,000 miles. How Often Should I Replace My Brake Fluid? If it seems especially low, there’s a chance you have a leak, which requires urgent attention. If it’s below the line, it may need to be topped off or replaced entirely. Keep an eye on the level of fluid as well.
If you notice that the fluid is dark brown or murky, have it tested by a professional for moisture to see if they recommend a change. Brake fluid should be light brown in color - sometimes it will be clear when it’s brand new - but it will darken with age. You can tell when it might be time for a change by checking the color of the fluid you see.
When Is It Time for a Brake Fluid Change? Removing the cap can draw more moisture into the hydraulics system. The cap should be translucent, allowing you to check the fluid levels without opening it. Once you’ve located the reservoir, do not open the cap. You may also see brake lines coming out of the bottom of it. It’s often located above the master cylinder. To check your brake fluid, check your owner’s manual to see where to find the reservoir. This can indicate other issues as well, but it may be a sign of overheated brake fluid - and potential brake failure.īut it’s best not to wait for a critical driving situation to find out you have low brake fluid levels or contaminated fluid. You should check it before problems arise. If you’re driving with bad brake fluid, you might find that it takes more pressure on the pedal to come to a stop. You may also notice a burning, chemical odor or smoke after repeated hard braking. In a worst-case scenario, your brakes won’t work at all. If fluid levels are low or contaminated by moisture, you won’t have the same braking power. It can also absorb moisture from the environment, which can corrode the hydraulic system and make your brakes less effective. Just like oil, brake fluid will lose its effectiveness over time. While it may have a simple role, it’s a critical component in the braking process. What Is Brake Fluid and Why Is It Important?īrake fluid helps your hydraulic system operate smoothly.
This guide will answer all your most frequently asked questions, including how to check your fluid level and know when it’s time for a brake fluid change. If you have questions about how and when to change your brake fluid, you’re not alone. Proper brake maintenance is crucial to keeping your car running smoothly - and keeping yourself safe. Just as engine oil keeps a car running, brake fluid is vital to helping the car come to a stop.Ĭhanging your brake fluid can’t be left as a footnote in your maintenance checklist.