How to Flush Brake Fluid: Complete Guide

TLDRLearn how to flush your brake fluid properly to ensure optimal braking performance and prevent potential issues caused by water contamination. This comprehensive guide covers the entire process and provides valuable insights and tips.

Key insights

🔑Brake fluid should be flushed every 2-3 years to remove water and prevent brake failure.

🚗Flushing the brake fluid is essential when replacing brake calipers to avoid contaminating the new calipers.

🌡️Brake fluid absorbs water, which lowers its boiling point and may result in brake fade under high temperatures.

💧Water-contaminated brake fluid can boil and create compressible voids, causing loss of brake effectiveness.

🛠️The two-person method and the one-person method are the two common ways to bleed brakes effectively.

Q&A

How often should brake fluid be flushed?

Brake fluid should be flushed every 2-3 years or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

Can I flush the brake fluid myself?

Yes, you can flush the brake fluid yourself by following the step-by-step process outlined in this video.

Why is water contamination a concern in brake fluid?

Water in brake fluid lowers its boiling point and can lead to brake fade and loss of braking effectiveness.

What is the difference between the two-person method and the one-person method of bleeding brakes?

The two-person method requires someone to press the brake pedal while another person opens and closes the bleeder valve. The one-person method uses a bottle system to prevent air from entering the system while you press the brake pedal.

Can I reuse brake fluid that I drained from the system?

It's best to use fresh brake fluid when performing a brake flush to ensure optimal performance and avoid introducing contaminants.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction: In this video, you will learn how to properly flush your brake fluid for optimal braking performance.

03:00Importance of brake fluid flush: Brake fluid should be flushed every 2-3 years to remove water and maintain braking effectiveness.

05:35One-person method: Learn how to use a bottle system to bleed brakes on your own.

08:27Flushing disc brake: The process is the same as for drum brakes, ensuring thorough fluid replacement.

10:11Dealing with a clogged bleeder valve: Learn how to unclog and replace a rusted bleeder valve for optimal fluid flow.

11:45Conclusion: Tips on filling the master cylinder and the importance of flushing brake fluid regularly.