The cost of brake fluid replacement ranges from $80 to $205 on average. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While a relatively simple maintenance service, maintaining clean brake fluid at the right levels is critical for the safety of your vehicle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the pressure levels in your brake lines drop, or your brake fluid gets contaminated with dirt or moisture, it could prevent your car\u2019s brakes from working correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Though brake fluid is on the more affordable side of car-maintenance expenses, understanding the variables that cause the service to cost more or less can help you avoid surprises at the shop. It mostly comes down to what your car needs and who\u2019s doing the service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are four primary types of brake fluid \u2014 DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5 and DOT 5.1\u2014 each designed for different brake system requirements and driving conditions. Higher-grade fluid costs more to replace than low-grade fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Each type of brake fluid is composed of a combination of solvents, lubricating agents and additives like antioxidants and corrosion inhibitors. However, DOTs 3, 4 and 5.1 are silicon-based while DOT 5 is glycol-based, making it more suited for colder climates and military vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To determine which type of brake fluid your vehicle needs, you can look at the Department of Transportation (DOT) number etched into your brake fluid reservoir cap. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can only mix brake fluid types if you go up to a higher grade option \u2014 DOT 3 with DOT 4 or 5.1 and DOT 4 with DOT 5.1 \u2014 and you can\u2019t mix DOT 5 with any other types of brake fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The more complex a car repair is, the longer you can expect it to take and more you\u2019ll probably pay. Luxury vehicles and those with complex or high-performance brake systems often require a more complicated fluid flush process than a car with a simple brake system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With some exceptions, vehicle repairs and mechanical services tend to cost more at dealerships than independent shops. You may also pay more on average for things like brake fluid replacement if you live in an urban area than a rural one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, leak out of the lines and gum up with contamination, reducing brake performance and making your car less safe on the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A brake fluid replacement, also known as a brake fluid flush, is the process of draining any existing brake fluid from your vehicle\u2019s lines and replacing it with fresh fluid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The service can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most mechanics also use this opportunity to visually inspect the brake lines for any leaks or areas where moisture and contaminants could get into your brake system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid and one of the most crucial components of your braking system. It\u2019s responsible for transferring pressure from the brake pedal inside your car to the components at each wheel, helping you stop your car on demand. What\u2019s special about brake fluid is that it is non-compressable so it gives immediate and consistent braking pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It also acts as a lubricant for the various parts of your brake system, keeping them moving smoothly and efficiently. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some carmakers will include a brake fluid replacement in their owner\u2019s manual under regularly scheduled maintenance. If so, follow those guidelines. For example, Subaru calls for brake fluid flushes every 30,000 miles or three years. Otherwise, mechanics generally say brake fluid replacement should be done every 30,000 to 45,000 miles, on average, or anytime you notice a change in your brake fluid or brake performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many drivers choose to flush their brake fluid each time they install new brake pads<\/a> or shoes on their vehicle, which can also save you money on labor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n