What happens if you dont change brake fluid?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I often encounter questions about vehicle maintenance, and one of the most critical yet overlooked aspects is brake fluid. Many drivers may not realize the importance of regularly changing their brake fluid, which can lead to serious safety issues. In this article, we will explore the consequences of neglecting brake fluid maintenance and why it should be a priority for every vehicle owner.
The Importance of Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is essential for the proper functioning of your vehicle's braking system. It transfers force from the brake pedal to the brake components, allowing your car to stop effectively. Over time, however, brake fluid can become contaminated and lose its effectiveness. Here are some key reasons why changing your brake fluid is crucial:
- Moisture Absorption: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. This can lead to a decrease in boiling point and potentially cause brake failure.
- Contamination: Dirt and debris can enter the brake fluid, leading to corrosion of brake components and reduced performance.
- Fluid Degradation: Over time, brake fluid can break down and lose its lubricating properties, which can affect the overall braking system.
Consequences of Not Changing Brake Fluid
Failing to change your brake fluid can have several detrimental effects on your vehicle's performance and safety:
- Reduced Braking Efficiency: Contaminated or degraded brake fluid can lead to a spongy brake pedal feel, making it harder to stop your vehicle effectively.
- Increased Risk of Brake Failure: If the brake fluid boils due to moisture absorption, it can create vapor bubbles in the brake lines, leading to a complete loss of braking power.
- Corrosion of Brake Components: Contaminated brake fluid can cause rust and corrosion in the brake system, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
- Safety Hazards: Ultimately, neglecting brake fluid maintenance can put you and others on the road at risk, as compromised brakes can lead to accidents.
How Often Should You Change Brake Fluid?
To maintain optimal braking performance, it is generally recommended to change your brake fluid every 1 to 2 years, depending on your vehicle's manufacturer guidelines and driving conditions. Regular inspections by a qualified technician can help ensure that your brake fluid is in good condition and that your braking system is functioning properly.
Conclusion
In summary, neglecting to change your brake fluid can lead to serious consequences, including reduced braking efficiency, increased risk of brake failure, and safety hazards on the road. At Kevin's Autos, we emphasize the importance of regular maintenance to keep your vehicle safe and reliable. If you have any questions about your brake fluid or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it bad to drive with bad brake fluid?
Yes, it will cause damage and very possibly injury or death when you try to stop and smash into something because your brakes failed and if you're leaking brake fluid it is not IF your brakes fail it is WHEN your brakes fail and they WILL fail.
Can brake fluid last 10 years?
There is no set time to change the brake fluid in your vehicle. The timing varies by type of car, the driving conditions you typically encounter, and the manufacturer's recommendations. But a good rule of thumb is to check it during regular oil changes, and expect to change it every four to five years.
What happens if you don't service your brake fluid?
Neglecting brake fluid maintenance can lead to issues such as brake fading, brake pedal failure, and corrosion and deterioration of brake components.
How do I know if my brake fluid needs changing?
Strange Noises or Smells 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. Burning smells after hard braking could mean that you have burnt-out brake fluid.
How much should a brake flush cost?
A brake fluid flush costs around $100 to $160. The fluid itself is inexpensive: The average car needs about a quart (1 liter), which costs around $5 to $10. It is a relatively quick job, taking less than an hour, so expect to pay between $100 and $150 for labor, depending on the cost of labor in your region.
How long can I go without a brake fluid change?
YOU SHOULD REPLACE BRAKE FLUID EVERY FEW YEARS
And the best way to find out how often to change brake fluid is to follow your manufacturer's recommendations. Some manufacturers say you should replace your brake fluid every two years. Others recommend every three years, or every 45,000 miles.
Can I just add brake fluid without flushing?
Yes, you can. You can add brake fluid without removing the old fluid from your reservoir. If your brake system is not exposed to air, then it's okay.
What happens if you never change brake fluid?
Allow the water to build up and remain in the vehicle, and internal corrosion may damage the master cylinder, calipers, brake lines, and other components. Replacing those will take a significant chunk of your money while changing the fluid costs just $100 or less.
How much should a brake fluid change cost?
between $80 to $130
How much is Brake Fluid Change? The costs of changing the brake fluid, or doing a brake fluid flush, should cost between $80 to $130 and should be done by a professional mechanic to ensure safety. These costs can vary based on whether you want to change the fluid yourself and the type of fluid you have.
What happens if you wait too long to change brake fluid?
If your brake fluid is never changed, the accumulated moisture significantly lowers the boiling point of your brake fluid and causes your brake lines to corrode and weaken over time; in some cases, they might even fail.
