How to Do a Brake Fluid Flush
Author: Toby Date Posted:13 December 2024
Brake fluid is a special type of hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your foot on the brake pedal to the actual brakes on your wheels. When you hit the brakes, that fluid pressure is what helps your car stop.
Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, and that’s where trouble can start. Moisture in the fluid can cause corrosion inside the brake system and lead to poor braking performance—two things no driver wants. Hence, a need for a regular brake fluid flush.
A brake fluid flush is simply swapping out the old, moisture-ridden fluid for fresh fluid. Doing this keeps your braking system in top condition, giving you that firm brake feel and stopping power you need, especially in emergency situations.
How Often Should You Change Brake Fluid?
Now, this depends on your vehicle and driving conditions or as your car manufacturer advises. Some carmakers recommend a change every 20,000 km, while others say a bleed at around 150,000 km might be enough. As a general rule of thumb, 30,000 km works well for most drivers in Australia. That’s usually around every two to three years.
The cost of a brake fluid flush can vary depending on the type of vehicle and service provider. Generally, it can range from $70 to $150 if done professionally. However, if you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, you can save a lot by doing it yourself.
Flushing Brake Fluid Steps
Flushing brake fluid is a straightforward task if you’re a bit handy with tools and have some basic knowledge of vehicle systems. Here’s how you can tackle it:
- Empty the Master Cylinder Reservoir
Start by using a syphon to remove the old brake fluid from the master cylinder. Be careful not to spill it on any painted surfaces, as brake fluid can be quite corrosive.
- Refill the Master Cylinder
Pour in fresh brake fluid to the master cylinder, being careful not to let it drop too low. Keeping it topped up prevents air from entering the brake lines, which can make bleeding the brakes more difficult.
- Bleed the Brakes
Start bleeding the brakes at the wheel furthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger side). Open the bleeder valve and have a helper press down on the brake pedal. Continue until you see clear fluid flowing out. Repeat this for each wheel.
- Top Off the Master Cylinder
After bleeding each line, double-check the master cylinder level and top it off as needed. This ensures no air sneaks into the system.
- Dispose of Used Brake Fluid Properly
Brake fluid is hazardous waste, so it’s best to dispose of it at a local recycling centre. Never pour it down a drain or mix it with household waste.
Keep Your Brakes in Peak Condition
Doing a brake fluid flush every few years is a simple, effective way to keep your brakes working as they should. Fresh fluid prevents moisture buildup, corrosion, and brake fade, so you get reliable performance when it counts.
Whether you tackle this job yourself or go to a professional, a brake fluid flush is a small investment that can make a big difference in your car’s braking performance.
For more tips on essential car maintenance, check out Superspares’ range of service essentials.
