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Brake Fluid Change
Typical Cost: Low
Mobile Repair? Yes
Typical Lead Time: 24 - 48 hours depending on mechanic availability
What is brake fluid?
Brake fluid is a specifically created hydraulic fluid that is used to transfer the force created by pressing down onto the brake pedal into pushing the brake pads (or shoes) against the brake discs.
How does brake fluid work and what are the components?
Unlike water for instance, hydraulic brake fluid doesn’t condense when pressure is applied to it. Due to its molecular structure this means that the force applied at one end of an enclosed area has reduced loss at the other end.
When the foot brakes are applied, a pressure is created in the brake master cylinder, which then transfers through the brake pipes to force the piston in the brake caliper or wheel cylinder out and therefore pushes the brake pads or shoes against the discs and drums.
How do you know there is something wrong with the brake fluid?
- If you suspect there is any issue with your brake fluid or are concerns about its age or condition, book an inspection with immediate effect.
- Whilst there are little outward signs that there is an issue with your brake fluid, you may find that your brakes feel less responsive than they used to.
When should you consider a brake fluid replacement?
Brake fluid is hygroscopic and will absorb moisture over time. The ingress of water reduced the fluid resistance to compression and this will make the brakes inefficient. You may notice a reduction in reaction and could even start to experience more brake fade as the water will reduce the boiling point of the fluid.
Therefore the fluid should be replaced every 5 years at least. Whilst you may not notice any reduction in braking ability, it will have been a very gradual decline and therefore not an immediate, noticeable drop off.
If you make heavy use of your brakes, from your driving style or towing a caravan for example, you may find that your brakes will loose their ability to slow the vehicle. This brake fade is due to the fluid’s boiling point being reached and that has a detrimental effect on its hydraulic properties. So, if you notice smoke coming out the wheels after heavy or prolonged braking it’s quite likely the fluid will have been boiled. Even though it will cool down, it will start to absorb more moisture and its efficiency will be reduced.
What happens during a brake fluid replacement?
Changing brake fluid is a routine repair for all mechanics and can be done both kerbside as well as in the workshop, providing it is safe to do so.
Whilst there are variations between manufacturers, the basics are pretty similar.
The mechanic will;
- Inspect the brake system.
- Advise if other parts of the brake system need replacing too.
- Replace the brake fluid and bleed the air from the system.
- Inspect the brake system again and, if deemed safe, test drive the car.
What does this repair cover?
Unless otherwise stated, the quote for your brake fluid to be replaced will cover;
- The cost of the brake fluid
- Coming to you
- Replacement of the fluid and bleeding the air from the system
- Disposal of the old fluid
- VAT (if applicable)
- 12 months parts and labour warranty
What to search for on the ClickMechanic site?
Brake fluid change
Associated repairs
Brake pads replacement
Brake discs and pads replacement
Brake caliper replacement
Brake pipe replacement
Brake hose replacement
Wheel cylinder replacement
How much does it cost to have the brake fluid changed?
The cost of replacing the brake fluid depends on your car and what fluid your car's manufacturer recommends.
Find out what you could save by visiting ClickMechanic
https://www.clickmechanic.com/bookings/car
FAQ’s
Can I supply my own parts?
No, we will not fit customer supplied parts unless they are a brand new item, purchased from a dealership with the receipt as proof of purchase. There is no flexibility over this due to insurance and warranty issues.
What happens if the mechanic finds that the brake fluid doesn’t require changing and the problem is due to another issue?
In this scenario, the mechanic will provide a no obligation quote for the correct repair. Should you accept this, the mechanic can alter the booking accordingly. If you decide not to go ahead with the alternative repair, the mechanic can change the booking to a call out and diagnostic booking and charge according to the time spent with the vehicle and call out.