When it comes to brakes, most people focus on rotors and pads, but brake fluid plays a crucial role in your braking system that shouldn’t be forgotten. Between all of the other maintenance items to keep track of, brake fluid flushes can be pushed to the back burner.
What is Brake Fluid?
Brake fluid is an essential part of any car’s braking system and is crucial for the brakes to function properly. They work by transferring the force from your brake pedal to the brakes themselves. If that fluid is old, dirty, or contains moisture, your brakes might feel spongy, take longer to stop, or even fail in extreme cases.
Brake fluid may also leak from faulty lines or other seals, depriving your brakes of the fluid they need to safely stop your vehicle. If there is visible leakage on your master cylinder or brake lines, it’s recommended to have your system inspected as soon as possible before the issue gets worse.
Signs You Need a Brake Fluid Flush
Soft, Bouncy, or Spongy Brake Pedal
When you go to press on your brake pedal, it feels soft, spongy, loose, or bouncy. Low brake fluid will cause air to fill the gaps in your brake line, leading to soft brakes.
ABS Dashboard Light
When the ABS light illuminates on your dashboard, it usually indicates an issue with your anti-lock braking system. When the ABS is in use, the system stops your wheels from locking up during braking to prevent skids and maintain traction. Low brake fluid will automatically turn on the ABS to help keep your vehicle stopping properly.
Ineffective Braking
Your vehicle’s brakes should be quick and responsive at all times to help you stay safe in an emergency. If there are any delays or difficulties while slowing or stopping your vehicle, this may be a sign that your brakes need servicing. Such issues could be the sign that you need a brake fluid flush.
Strange Noises When Braking
If you notice strange sounds when you are braking, this could be caused by low brake fluid or another brake system issue. Common sounds include scraping or grinding noises.
Contaminated Brake Fluid
Modern vehicles use hydraulic brakes to slow and stop. And after several years of normal use, brake fluid will become dirty and contaminated. It will begin to have effects on the brake system’s overall function, you may experience spongy-like brakes when coming to a stop, or squeaky noises while braking, and not stopping as quickly when coming to a stop. If you notice any of these named sypmtoms we recommend getting your brake fluid checked soon.
What Does a Brake Fluid Flush Cost?
The price of your flush depends on multiple factors, including the vehicle itself, fluid capacity, and the type of fluid required, and is 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 to $200.
Benefits of a Brake Fluid Flush
- Prevents Corrosion
- Enhances Brake Performance
- Increases Safety
- Protects Brake System Components
- Avoids Spongy Brakes
- Reduces Repair Costs
How Often Should Brake Fluid Be Changed?
Brake fluid flushes should be carried out every 2-3 years. Checking your owner’s manual, a trusted online source, or calling the dealer directly will give a proper timeline.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s worth inspecting your fluid or having a professional inspect it to see if that could be the source of your issue.
Brake Fluid Service In Puyallup
If you need brake services on your vehicle, schedule an appointment with the expert technicians at 15th Street Automotive in Puyallup, Washington! Our team has extensive training and experience providing service on the brake systems of all kinds of makes and models. Call us today or schedule an appointment online!