What happens if you don’t change your brake fluid?

Without timely changes, brake fluid loses its lubricating properties, contributing to increased wear on brake parts. Neglecting this essential maintenance can result in brake fade, decreased stopping power, and potential long-term damage, necessitating costly repairs. Therefore, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid change intervals is essential for preserving both safety and performance .

Regularly changing your brake fluid is crucial for maintaining optimal performance in your vehicle’s braking system . Brake fluid, a key component, absorbs moisture over time, leading to reduced boiling points and diminished braking efficiency. This moisture can also cause corrosion within the system, affecting critical components like the master cylinder and calipers. 

If you don’t change your brake fluid regularly, several issues can arise over time. Brake fluid is a crucial component in your vehicle’s braking system, and it plays a vital role in maintaining proper brake function. Here are some potential problems that can occur if you neglect to change your brake fluid.

1. Decreased Performance

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture from the air. Over time, this accumulation can lower its boiling point, potentially compromising braking performance, especially during intense braking situations.

2. Corrosion

Excess moisture in brake fluid poses a risk of corrosion within the brake system, impacting crucial components such as the master cylinder, brake lines, and calipers. This corrosion may jeopardize the structural integrity of these parts, potentially resulting in leaks or brake system failure.

3. Reduced Lubrication

Brake fluid plays a pivotal role as a vital lubricant for the intricate components within the braking system, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. Nevertheless, as time progresses, the fluid is susceptible to contamination and breakdown, compromising its inherent lubricating properties. This degradation can contribute to increased wear and tear on essential brake components, potentially accelerating their deterioration and, consequently, heightening the risk of premature system failure.

4. Brake Fade

Brake fade occurs when the braking system overheats, typically caused by the reduced boiling point of contaminated brake fluid. This phenomenon can lead to a temporary loss of braking power, posing a challenge in effectively stopping the vehicle. Regular checks and timely fluid replacement are crucial to mitigate the risk of brake fade and maintain optimal braking performance.

5. Long-Term Damage

Neglecting the regular replacement of brake fluid over an extended period can result in substantial repair costs. The prolonged use of degraded brake fluid may necessitate the replacement of critical components within the braking system, including the master cylinder, calipers, and brake lines. Timely fluid changes are essential to prevent such extensive damage and ensure the longevity of the braking system.

For over 12 years, Oceanside Motorsports has been an Oceanside staple helping you get back on the road faster than the dealer can. Some of our services include oil change, steering and suspension, transmission repair and tune-ups. We have continuously trained technicians and offer lifetime warranty on most repairs. With our Time Saver Service, we can get your car and deliver it to your doorstep once fixed. We can even help arrange towing if needed. You can also have our loaner cars for just $10 per day while your car is serviced.
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