Changing brake fluid can be a slippery subject. Some manufacturers include it within their maintenance schedules and others don't.
Mercedes-Benz, like, says brake fluid must be replaced every couple of years or 20,000 miles, and Volkswagen says that ought to be done of all of its models every couple of years no matter mileage. Subaru recommends fresh brake eagle rock car wash every 30,000 miles.
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On the other hand, most Chevrolets can go 150,000 miles or 10 years, based on Chevy's maintenance schedule, and many Ford, Chrysler and Toyota vehicles don't list brake fluid as a typical maintenance item.
Check your car's owner's manual to see what the maker recommends. You might also want to discuss the slippery subject of brake fluid with a trusted mechanic if the maker doesn't give any guidance. Don't be surprised in case a mechanic suggests replacing the brake fluid periodically, because mechanics probably have experienced exactly what do happen in the event that you don't.
What can happen? Although brake fluid dwells in a closed system it still can absorb moisture over time, and that will cause corrosion in the brake system. Moisture also lowers the boiling temperature of brake fluid, and that will reduce braking effectiveness in repeated hard stops.
If the maker lists a 10-year interval or none at all for replacing brake fluid, how often should you have it done?
Every 2 or 3 years might be too often, though when it helps you sleep during the night, then choose it. Just be aware that some service shops, especially the ones that make their living by replacing fluids, might make an effort to scare you with dire warnings that disaster is imminent if you flush all of your vehicle's fluids long before it's necessary.
Unless the maker requires it sooner, we'd wait four to five years and have it done at the same time as other brake work, such as for instance replacing pads or rotors. Replacing brake fluid is cheaper than replacing brake lines or a master cylinder that's corroded, so don't automatically dismiss the recommendation of a mechanic as just salesmanship.
And regardless of who suggests fresh car auto repair, ensure they're replacing it with the kind that is necesary by the automobile manufacturer. Some vehicles require DOT 3 fluid, others a different variety, such as for instance DOT 5, so consult your owner's manual before you provide the go ahead.