How much do I have to pay for a brake fluid change?
Depending on the manufacturer, the recommended intervals for changing brake fluid are as often as every two years or never.Wait, never?Never.
Chevrolet calls for a brake fluid change on most models every 45,000 miles, but Honda says to do it every three years regardless of the vehicle's mileage.The recommended interval for most Volkswagens is three years, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles call for fresh fluid every two years or 20,000 miles.There are no recommendations for replacing the brake fluid on the Ford Escape, Toyota Camry, and other models from those manufacturers.
The owner can rely on the advice of a trusted repair shop and consult the manufacturer's maintenance schedule.
The brake fluid can survive for a long time in a sealed system, but it can be affected by the surrounding air.If your brake fluid is dirty or contaminated, it can affect how the system works, as well as the feel of the pedal.Water in the brake lines lowers the boiling point of the fluid so stopping ability can diminish in hard stops.The brake lines, calipers, the master cylinder and other components can be damaged over time by the humidity.
Replacing rusted brake lines, brake calipers and other brake parts can cost hundreds of dollars, so clearly there is value in keeping up with maintenance.If you live in a high-humidity area, it is advisable to have the brake fluid inspected and tested every five years.Salt and other contaminants can get into the brake fluid if drivers living in areas that get winter weather inspect their brake system frequently.
If you can see that the brake fluid is still fresh, you might be able to tell it is time for a change.Brake fluid is often light brown in color, and in some vehicles it is clear, but will become murky from water contamination.If you want to see what they recommend, you can have it tested by a professional.You can have this service done at the same place that does a rapid oil change.It is easy for the technician to take a sample and inspect your vehicle's fluids since he is already poking around under the hood.