Brakes are one of the most essential safety components on your vehicle. However, you may find yourself wondering if a brake fluid flush is necessary. The short answer? Yes.

Why A Brake Fluid Flush is Necessary

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that’s crucial for proper braking. Unlike other types of fluids in your vehicle, brake fluid isn’t added at specific intervals. Instead, we measure when the fluid should be changed, which is at 200 copper parts per million. The fluid is also hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air. It’s designed this way to absorb any moisture present in your brake system, which prevents corrosion on the metal components.

If your brake fluid becomes too hot (especially if it begins to boil), it creates air bubbles. If you’ve ever had air in your system, you know that the brake pedal will get “soft” or even go all the way to the floor without stopping the car. It’s a terrifying experience! Moisture contamination over time reduces the temperature that the brake fluid will form vapor (air bubbles) due to heat. The moisture also causes the fluid to become corrosive to the metal parts of the system.  

Once the fluid reaches 200 copper parts per million, the brake fluid’s corrosive effect increases greatly. This can potentially cause problems, requiring you to have an auto brake repair service performed. Generally, the damage to your brakes doesn’t occur suddenly, but by the time you notice the issue, your system could already be ruined.

Keeping Your Brake System Well-Maintained

Flushing the brake fluid is an essential part of vehicle maintenance—and can save you money in the long run! Since we’ve started performing brake flushes, we seldom need to replace the calipers. Some companies will recommend putting new calipers on your car as part of routine brake service, but they’re typically not needed. That’s another important reason to bring your car to a qualified technician!

Most brake flushes currently cost less than $150 and need to be done every two to four years, depending on the fluid measurements and the environment. In contrast, brake caliper replacements will often cost between $300 and $600. Luckily, moisture contamination isn’t as common in Yuma as it is in other parts of the country.

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I’m very satisfied with George and his crew at the Frontage Rd. location. I had a brake system leak on my truck and brought it to the shop in the morning. They replaced the part and had me back on the road before noon. Very friendly, knowledgable, and prompt service all around. I highly recommend Accurate Automotive Attention.

Jason diehl