With all of the maintenance items to keep track of, it’s easy to brush over more forgotten services like brake fluid flushes. Despite this, brake fluid is one of the most important fluids and maintenance items on your vehicle. While most people focus on the life of their rotors and pads, the fluid plays just as large a role in stopping your vehicle and needs to be treated with that importance during servicing. In this article, we’ll go over the role of brake fluid in your system, the symptoms of old brake fluid, the cost of a flush, and how frequently you should get yours changed.
What is Brake Fluid?
Similar to power steering fluid, brake fluid is hydraulic, meaning it’s used to amplify and transfer from one point to another. In this case, it’s the brake pedal transferring the amplified force to the pads that are pushed against the rotors to create friction.
Over time, brake fluid can encounter several issues that can reduce its effectiveness. The largest issue with brake fluid is that it’s hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from its surroundings. This becomes an issue when moisture builds up within the brake lines and corrodes the sensitive components and lines it runs through
Symptoms of Bad Brake Fluid
The effects of old or contaminated brake fluid show themselves in several ways, but here are some symptoms you should keep an eye out for that may be warning you of the problem:
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- The brake pedal sinks to the floor.
- Leaks around lines and the master cylinder
- Unusual noises and smells when braking.
- Decreased braking performance
- Illuminated brake warning light on the dashboard
What Does a Brake Fluid Flush Cost?
Brake fluid flushes are best completed during regular brake jobs, as it can be cheaper to roll it in with services like pad and rotor replacements. However, as a standalone service, you can expect to pay anywhere between $100 and $200
The price of your flush depends on many factors, including the vehicle itself, fluid capacity, and the type of fluid needed.
How Often Should I Have My Brake Fluid Changed?
In General, brake fluid flushes are best completed during regular brake jobs, as it can be cheaper to roll it with services like pad and rotor replacements. However, as a standalone service, you can expect to spend anywhere between $100 and $200.
Now we’re not saying to wait for the maximum amount of time, either. If you’re dealing with any of the above symptoms, it’s worth inspecting your fluid (or having a professional do so as well ) to see if that could be the source of your issue.
Brake Services in Des Moines, WA
When it’s time to service your vehicle’s brakes, bring them to the experts at Quality Auto & Electric. Our ASE-Certified technicians stay up to date on the latest in brake technology to get the job done right the first time! From the moment you step into our shop, you can expect honest advice, clear answers, and a team committed to getting you back on the road quickly and safely.