Most experts recommend changing your brake fluid every 2 to 3 years. This process involves removing the old solution by flushing and replacing it with fresh fluid. What is the fee for this service? Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville can provide you with an estimate for a brake fluid flush cost.
Factors Affecting a Brake Fluid Flush Cost
Typically, a brake fluid flush cost varies between $100 and $225. Auto repair shops charge for a flush based on the following factors:
- Type of brake fluid – Automobiles require one of 4 different types
- Required amount of fluid – Vehicles require between 1-2 liters
- Labor costs – Some cars require specialized equipment to bleed the system properly
- Shop overhead – Auto repair shops vary in operating costs
General Guidelines For Timeline To Change Your Brake Fluid
Like other fluids in your vehicle, the braking solution deteriorates and loses its effectiveness over time. Generally, your brake fluid becomes contaminated and dirty through 3 main causes:
- Moisture Absorption
Some parts of the brake system are air permeable, allowing small amounts of air to enter the system. These components include rubber hoses and seals. Additionally, seams and joints usually have microscopic holes, allowing air to enter.
Glycol, the main ingredient in most brake fluids, is hygroscopic and readily absorbs moisture from the air. Over time, your fluid becomes saturated with moisture, losing its hydraulic ability.
- Copper In The Brake Fluid
Some manufacturers use copper in their brake lines. As the corrosion inhibitors in brake fluid lose their effectiveness, copper begins to dissolve into the brake fluid. Having this metal in your brake fluid helps accelerate corrosion. Additionally, small copper particles floating in the fluid can damage brake parts.
- Rust
High levels of water in your brake fluid will begin the rusting of metal parts. This includes calipers and the master cylinder. As rust builds up, tiny flakes can break off and become suspended in the fluid. Then, it can clog passageways and valves in the system.
Common Signs You Need A Brake Flush
Although the guideline for changing your brake fluid is 2-3 years, some conditions can cause deterioration faster:
- Frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic
- Driving on steep roads
- Aggressive driving
- Living in a humid climate
In addition to moisture, heat is also a primary enemy of brake fluid. Frequent and prolonged braking raises the brake fluid temperature, accelerating its breakdown. As the fluid loses its effectiveness, you may notice one of these signs:
If you experience any of these symptoms, bring your car to your mechanic as soon as possible. Failing to change your fluid can lead to extensive damage, higher repair costs, and complete brake failure.
FAQS About Brake Fluid
Are you thinking it might be time for a brake fluid flush? Bring your car to the brake specialists at Xpress Lube. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about brake fluid.
How Can I Check My Brake Fluid Level And Color?
The brake system has a fluid reservoir located at the back of the engine. It’s usually attached to the metal wall separating the engine from the cabin. If you have trouble locating it, your vehicle owner’s manual can help you find it.
Generally, the reservoirs of modern automobiles are translucent plastic with marked maximum and minimum levels. Your brake fluid level should be between these lines and be a clear liquid. While most brake fluids are a yellow/amber hue, some can be purple. Old, used fluid will appear darker in shades of brown or black.
What Type Of Brake Fluid Do I Need?
Manufacturers designate different types by a DOT number that reflects the fluid’s boiling point and chemical makeup. Hence, choosing your brake fluid is about compatibility and manufacturer requirements. You can find your car’s requirements in your vehicle owner’s manual.
Can I Mix Different Types Of Brake Fluid?
Manufacturers make 4 different brake fluids with distinct chemical compositions.
The first 3 are glycol-based fluids, while DOT 5 is silicone-based. This is an important distinction because the chemical formulas aren’t compatible. While glycol absorbs water, silicone repels it. If you were to mix a glycol with a silicone brake fluid, the mixture could congeal and turn sludgy.
In comparison, glycol-based fluids have different dry and wet boiling points. A dry boiling point signifies a fluid that is new and lacks moisture. Correspondingly, a wet boiling point applies to a fluid that has absorbed moisture.
Although you can mix glycol-based fluids, most experts recommend doing this only in emergencies. When you mix different glycol DOT fluids, the resulting solution adopts the properties of the lower-rated fluid.
Where Should I Get My Brake Fluid Flush?
For over 25 years, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has been serving the community with friendly service and quality repairs. Many of our customers have been with us for years. Here’s what a few of them say about our work:
Such great service. I’ve become a repeat customer. Always helpful and professional. – Carl, K
Mac and his crew are always striving for perfection! It’s ALWAYS a great experience every visit. Willie F.
If we need something done on our cars we go to Mac and Jason. Great customer service, honest and always reasonable rates. Absolutely Recommend – Mitzi H.
Rather than compromise your safety, call us today at 336-904-6319 to get a brake fluid flush cost estimate.
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