Brake fluid is one of many fluids that keep your vehicle running at its best on the roads of Kannapolis and Salisbury. So, what is a brake fluid flush? It’s a process by which the old fluid is removed to make room for the new, and our team at Cloninger Ford is here to explain it in detail.
In this guide, we’ll show Lexington and Mooresville drivers what a brake fluid flush is, why it’s important, and when to have it performed. You can schedule service with us when it’s time for your fluid flush!
Why Is Brake Fluid Important?
Brake fluid is essential for the proper functioning of your car’s braking system. When you hit the brakes, it transfers the force from the brake pedal directly onto the wheel hub. The brake fluid needs to maintain a certain consistency and volume across a range of temperatures.
Your brake fluid exists in a sealed system to keep it at its best for as long as possible. However, water, air, and debris can still contaminate the system over time, hampering your brakes’ ability to stop the car—especially at high temperatures.
Another issue? That moisture can corrode parts of your braking system over time, decreasing the lifespan of the brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder. For that reason, routine brake fluid flushes are essential!
What Is a Brake Fluid Flush?
A brake fluid flush is exactly as it sounds: a process by which the old brake fluid is “flushed” out to make room for the new. Your auto technician will also bleed your brakes during this process to remove any air from the brake lines.
The pads, rotors, and hoses will be carefully inspected to ensure that there are no leaks, and your car will be test-driven to confirm that the brakes work as they should. The technicians at our service center can perform this service for you when you schedule a service appointment.
When Should I Change Brake Fluid?
When it comes to changing brake fluid, every car is different. For that reason, it’s smart to consult your vehicle maintenance schedule before doing anything else. It may recommend flushes at a certain interval to keep your brakes in good condition.
If your maintenance schedule doesn’t get into the specifics, a good rule of thumb is to flush brake fluid at least once every 30,000 miles or every 2 to 3 years.
You can also watch for warning signs that your brake fluid needs flushing. Squishy brakes and decreased stopping power are two symptoms of contaminated brake fluid. You can also check the condition of your brake fluid yourself: If it’s dark brown or black, it’s time to have it flushed.
Schedule a Brake Fluid Flush Today!
Now that you know what a brake fluid flush is, you can identify when your fluid needs flushing. It’s a great way to boost the longevity of your brakes and enjoy better stopping power on the roads of Mooresville and Kannapolis.
If you need your brake fluid inspected or flushed, just contact the service experts at Cloninger Ford, your dealer serving Salisbury and Lexington. We’ll restore your brakes to full health in no time!
