If the time has come or the circumstances have come to replace the brake fluid, decide whether you can complete this task yourself or whether it is better to trust the professionals after all.
Brake system
No matter what they say about the "heart of the car" or its other components and assemblies, no one will argue with the fact that brakes play far from a secondary role in the life of a motorist. And it is in life. Therefore, always carefully monitor the brake fluid level and the performance of the entire system.
I must say that the principle of operation of braking devices is similar in all cars. The functioning of the brakes as such is carried out by the hydraulic component. The fluid activates the brake pads, which allow the vehicle to be varied and stopped in a targeted manner. The braking system consists of a number of elements: brake pedal, brake master cylinder, booster, working cylinders, connecting hoses and metal pipes.
Conditions and frequency of replacement of brake fluid
The frequency of an absolute brake fluid change is from one to three years, depending on the vehicle manufacturer's instructions. In addition, a full fluid change is required in case of problems caused by moisture entering the system. The fact is that brake fluid has the unpleasant property of absorbing moisture, while simultaneously losing its properties.
Replacing the brake fluid
Replacing brake fluid is a difficult and extremely responsible process, so if you decide not to trust the service workers, try to clarify all the significant nuances. For example, what is the mechanism of the brake system circuits in your vehicle? It can be diagonal and parallel. The sequence of fluid change entirely depends on these data. With a diagonal pattern, it is as follows: rear right wheel, front left, rear left and front right. When parallel, first the rear right, rear left, then the front right and front left wheels.
The system is filled with fresh brake fluid through a reservoir located on the brake master cylinder. Then the brakes are "pumped" according to one of the above schemes. This is done to eliminate air from the connecting hoses and pipes.
For self-change, you will need a small container and a hose, which can be connected to the fittings of the working cylinders. In this case, it is also necessary to involve an assistant. The sequence of pumping the brakes is as follows: after pouring fluid into the system, the working cylinder fittings are cleaned, a hose is pulled onto one of them according to the desired pattern. The other end of the hose is lowered into a container pre-filled with new brake fluid. The command assistant rhythmically presses the brake pedal and holds it down. Air bubbles are visible through the slightly unscrewed fitting. Next, the fitting is supposed to be turned on and go to the next wheel.
When the brake system has ABS, ESP and SBS
Please note that if the brake system has ABS, then bleeding from it in the usual way is carried out only when the valve block, accumulator and pump are located within the same unit. In other respects, as well as in the presence of ESP and SBC, the brake fluid is replaced in a car service.
