There is one important part of your vehicle that you can rarely check. Many people forget it even exists until it's too late!
That part of your vehicle is your hydraulic brake system. Like any part of your Toyota vehicle, your hydraulic brake fluid should be checked and serviced periodically. One question many people have is how often should you change your brake fluid?
Checking and maintaining your hydraulic brakes will ensure that your car runs and brakes safely. A brake system that requires a brake fluid change can lead to brake system failure and increase your risk of an accident.
Here's what you need to know about checking and changing your car's brake fluid!
Have a Toyota service professional change your brake fluid
There are many easy do-it-yourself car maintenance activities that you can perform yourself. This leads some to believe that changing brake fluid should be just as easy, right?
If your vehicle needs new brake fluid, you should have a professional change it for you. Brake fluid is a complicated and dangerous substance. Those who work with brake fluid need the proper personal protective equipment and training because of the combustible and toxic properties of brake fluid.
Brake fluid is available in a variety of ratings and specifications depending on the type of car you drive. These fluids cannot mix and the old brake fluid must be completely drained before adding the new fluid.
A Toyota service professional will have the training and knowledge to safely and effectively change your vehicle's brake fluid.
How often should you change your brake fluid?
The answer depends. There is no set number of miles or years that require you to change your brake fluid like oil changes. The need to change your brake fluid varies by vehicle, driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations.
A good rule of thumb is to have your brakes and brake fluid checked by your mechanic every time you get an oil change. They will be able to give you the best feedback on how your brakes are performing and if they need new fluid. Most drivers find that they need to change their brake fluid every four to five years.
Ask the professionals at your Toyota dealership to help you with your braking needs!
Knowing when to change your brake fluid is a must-have skill to ensure the reliability of your vehicle! If you notice that your brakes are acting funny or your brake fluid is low, have a professional mechanic check our brakes for you!
What you need to know about brake fluid
The brakes in your Toyota vehicle are hydraulic, which means they use a fluid called brake fluid to operate. Hydraulic fluid works by converting a force, such as pressing the brake pedal, into pressure. Brake fluid works as a pressure medium to engage the front and rear brakes of a vehicle.
Unlike air and some solids, liquids are not compressible. It cannot condense, making it an excellent option for brakes.
You can find brake fluid in almost any motor vehicle, including cars, trucks, motorcycles and ATVs. Even some pedal bikes are switching to hydraulic brakes because of their increased efficiency and safety.
Weak or dirty brake fluid can cause brake failure in any type of vehicle. Brake fluid is specifically designed to last a long time but not forever. At some point, you will need to change your brake fluid.
Read also: How to repair, change or replace an alternator?
Signs that you need to change your brake fluid
One clear sign that you need to change your brake fluid is complete brake failure. Fortunately, there are several safer signs that your vehicle needs new brake fluid. If you encounter any of these signs, you should have your Toyota service mechanic check your brakes for you.
Problems with your pedals
When your brake fluid ages or leaks, your brake pedal may become harder to depress. This is a sign that your brake lines may need more fluid. When the brake pedal becomes abnormally soft, your brake fluid should be changed.
Ignoring either of these signs can lead to brake failure or make braking incredibly difficult.
The Illuminated ABS Light
The ABS light on your vehicles means anti-lock braking system. When it lights up, it warns you that something is wrong with your braking system.
The most common reason for this light is that you need to replace or top off your brake fluid. There are, of course, other reasons that could cause your brake light to come on. Always have your brakes checked by a professional to make sure there isn't a more serious underlying problem.
Your brake pads aren't working properly
As your brake fluid ages or becomes dirty, it will affect the proper functioning of your brake pads. You may hear a grinding, squealing or other strange sound coming from your brakes. Another telltale sign is that your brakes take a little longer to come to a complete stop.
A burning smell
Overheated brakes can produce a strong chemical smell, similar to that of burnt rubber or metal. If you notice this smell on your vehicle, stop immediately and let your brakes cool down before they damage your wheel or brake system.
How to check your brake fluid
You'll need to check your brake fluid first. The quality and level of your brake fluid can tell you about any other potential vehicle problems.
To check your brake fluid, you will need to unlock and open the hood of your vehicle. Most vehicles store brake fluid in a translucent reservoir that allows you to see the fluid level without opening the container. This reservoir is usually located near the back of the engine compartment in front of the brake pedal.
Brake fluid is usually clear and bright in color. If it is not clean or clear, your brake fluid is dirty and needs to be changed.
The reservoir should have a label that says "full line." If the brake fluid falls below this line, it is a sign that you need to change your brake fluid or top it off. A low brake fluid level can also indicate that your brake pads are wearing out and need servicing.
You should avoid opening this container unless you plan to add or change your brake fluid. Opening the reservoir exposes it to air, causing moisture to enter the hydraulic system. This can impact your braking performance or require you to change your brake fluid sooner.
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