Changing the brake fluid

The brake fluid in a vehicle should be checked once a year. The following recommendation for the boiling point test should be strictly observed: Over 180 °C = OK 170 - 180 °C = within 3 months Under 170 °C = change immediately Brake fluid should be changed at regular intervals, irrespective of the boiling point. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend a change interval of between one and two years. The reason for this is impurity in the brake fluid caused by fine abrasion of the sealings. This fine abrasion can lead to damage to the master cylinder as well as the ABS hydraulic unit or the wheel brake. The brake fluid to be used depends on the the specifications issued by the vehicle manufacturer. The specification is mostly stated on the filling cover of the reservoir.

Tip: The following instructions should also be observed:

Depending on the level of contamination in the brake fuild the reservoir should be dismantled from the master cylinder and cleaned with brake cleaner or new brake fluid. Never clean the reservoir with water or petroleum ether or other fluids. In principle, pressurized air should never be used when working on the brake system (oil film in the pressurized air system containes mineral oil). Observe the purging sequence specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Change at least 0.5 litres of brake fluid per wheel (rinsing and cleaning effect). 

When changing the brake fluid always

observe the specifications of the vehicle manufacturer. Only use the brake fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer for the vehicle! Brake fluid containing mineral oil may not be used in brake systems filled with glycol or silicon based brake fluid!