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The safety of a vehicle should be prioritized over everything. No doubt, we all take car maintenance very seriously, but changing brake fluid often slips from one’s mind.
We take notice of the obvious, like the brake pads or the tires, but we tend to neglect the brake fluid check. The brake fluid plays a pivotal role in the functioning of a car. Whenever you hit the brakes, the brake fluid is forcefully rushed into the brake calipers and stops the car.
Like any other fluid in a car, brake fluid can also evaporate or absorb moisture and can cause debris. With the compromised form of brake fluid, brake calipers also get damaged, causing a brake fluid leak.
So, brake fluid change should also be considered when you take your car for maintenance.
Why is Brake Fluid Change Essential?
The brake fluid is a hygroscopic liquid, which means it can easily absorb moisture from the air.
Over time accumulation of moisture increases the water content in the brake fluid. The water’s presence lowers the boiling point of the fluid and causes disruption.
The moisture can also cause corrosion in the brake fluid chamber and calipers, resulting in an ineffective brake system. As the vehicle heats up during prolonged use, the brake fluid tends to evaporate. If you delay your brake fluid change for a long time, the old brake fluid fades away with time.
Hence, replace brake fluid every now and then to make your brakes work smoothly. The brakes work on the hydraulic principle, which involves the transfer of fluid from the brake to the calipers. If there is less or corroded brake fluid in the calipers, it will affect the hydraulic efficacy. Brake fluids also prevent premature brake failure, corrosion, and rust.
Impact Of Brake Fluid Change
A brake fluid change can significantly impact the running of the car. It not only promotes smooth driving and longevity but, most importantly, safety. Safety = efficient brakes is the perfect equation to describe the relation. Brakes are the main factor that protects the car, driver, and passengers.
The brake system fluids are compromised; you are putting your own and your family’s lives in danger. Other than safety, the brake fluid change ensures regulated hydraulic pressure in the brakes. Using a good brand of brake oil lubricates the brake system, making the brakes more responsive. A perfect brake can also increase the resale value of a car.
Being consistent in changing brake fluid can prevent costly major repairs. As mentioned above, old brake fluid adversely affects the system. Frequent changes can prevent brake fluid leaks due to damaged calipers or chambers.
How Often to Change Brake Fluid?
The timeline of changing brake fluid depends on numerous factors, like car model, type, driving habits, and manufacturer recommendations. Generally, a brake fluid change is necessary every 2 years. If it is a very good quality of fluid in the car’s brake system, then it can be stretched to 3 years. But ideally, it is recommended once in two years.
Signs to Replace Brake Fluid
Look out for signs that the brakes and car will show if it’s time to replace brake fluid.
- The brake pedal will become spongy and soft.
- Reduced brake efficiency
- Presence of dirty, dark fluid in the calipers.
- The ABS (Antilock Braking System) warning light is on.
Brake Fluid Change Cost
The cost of changing brake fluids depends on the car model, location, and labor costs.
As of 2025, a typical range in the USA is $70 to $150 at a dealership or car repair store. It would cost you $20 to $50 if you DIY, which is just the cost of brake fluid.
If you get it done from a repair shop like Autoworxde, the cost will include:
- Draining out and cleaning the calipers.
- Removal and flushing of old residual brake fluid.
- Refilling the brake system with fresh, good-quality brake fluid.
- Filling up minor leaks in the system
- Bleeding the brakes to remove potential air bubbles.
Brake Fluid Change Near Me in Philadelphia
Always read the reviews of the repair shop before finalizing, as it will protect you from counterfeit brake fluid usage. When you look up “brake fluid change near me,” you may find tons of options, but in the Philadelphia/Claymont area, Autoworx has established its supremacy with top-notch services.
We use the best quality brake fluids, and their professionals replace brake fluids with great expertise.
Autoworxde offers other car repairs as well, which include oil changes, engine repair, and steering and suspension. Consider yourself lucky if you reside in Philadelphia, as you have such reliable auto repair services.