Brake fluid is a special liquid that produces the power to move the various parts of your vehicle’s brake system. It has a special formula that allows it to work at high temperatures, under high pressure and cannot be compressed. When you press on your brake pedal, it sends it through the pipes that are linked to the brake cylinders on your car. This then applies pressure to the inner rims of your wheels which then slows or stops the car.
What you need for a brake fluid change
- New brake fluid as per the manufacturer’s requirements
- Hand-held vacuum pump
- Hand tools
- Plastic drain container
- Brake bleeding kit
- Nitrile gloves
- Jack and jack stands
WARNING – Brake fluid is highly corrosive and can strip paint off your car. Knowing how to change brake fluid the right way by always wearing protective eyewear and nitrile gloves.
How to change brake fluid
- Firstly, you need to jack up the car to get access to the bleeder screws.
- Once you have the car raised up on the jack stands, locate the brake bleeder screws which can be found on each of the wheel callipers or brake cylinders. Do not loosen the bleeder screws.
- Locate the master cylinder and remove the reservoir cap. Remove the old brake fluid with a vacuum pump, use a lint-free cloth to wipe out the residue (only if you can do so).
- You then need to attach the bleeder hose to the calliper bleeder screw, the one which is furthest away from the master cylinder and put the other end of the tubing into a jar with about 1/2” of clean brake fluid in it. Loosen the bleeder screw now and have a second person press the brake pedal.
- Bleed until no air bubbles are visible, capturing the used brake fluid into the drain container. Tighten the bleeder screw before the second person lets their foot off the pedal. Repeat as necessary until no bubbles are appearing.
- Now you need to order brake fluid reservoir and make sure the master cylinder reservoir never runs dry. You then need to repeat steps 4 and 5, working closer to the master cylinder as you go. Refill the reservoir as needed, only using new brake fluid each time.
- Top off the brake fluid reservoir and replace the cap. Test the brake pedal before you drive the vehicle.
Where can I find a local mechanic to change my brake fluid?
If you don’t want to attempt the process yourself, you can always have the work carried out by a local mechanic in your area. Here at MyCarNeedsA.com, we can gather quotes from local mechanics in your area!
