Have you been getting a brake fluid flush in Clinton, MD every three years or thirty thousand miles? That’s the most common recommendation you tend to find on the internet, and if you’re keeping strictly to that schedule, you’re probably having it done too often.
It’s easy to see where those figures come from. Most rules of thumb tend to err on the side of caution, and the general thinking is that it’s better to have a brake fluid flush in Clinton, MD more often than is strictly needed than not to have it done at all. On the other hand, that puts you in the unhappy position of paying for a service you don’t actually need.
If you want to save yourself some money, consider the rule of thumb to be exactly what it is: A general guideline. Rather than abiding by a general guideline, there’s a better approach. At regular intervals, have your brake fluid tested.
While it’s true that any good mechanic can take one look at your brake fluid and know that you might need to do something about it, even that isn’t ironclad. There are two tests that can be performed on it, however, that will tell you with absolute certainty if it’s time to have brake fluid flush in Clinton, MD.
The first test is called a strip test. Most people aren’t aware of the fact that their brake lines are brazed with copper. Brake fluid contains anti-corrosion compounds, but over time, those compounds start breaking down, which means they stop being effective and doing the job they’re supposed to do. When that happens, the fluid will begin causing some of the copper to flake off, which is what sometimes gives it a darker than expected coloration.
The strip test is a simple way to measure the concentration of copper in your fluid. Beyond a certain point, it poses a risk that could impact the proper functioning of your brakes, and it’s time to flush the system.
The second test is a moisture test. This one takes even less time to perform, and is a simple way to measure the amount of water that has mingled with your brake fluid. Small amounts aren’t problematic, but as with the gradual buildup of copper in your fluid, too much of it will begin to impact how your brakes work, which is never a good thing.
The bottom line is, you don’t have to guess at when you might need a brake fluid flush. The two tests mentioned above will tell you with certainty, which will ensure that you’re only spending money on the service when and as you need to.
Give us a call to schedule an appointment or swing by your shop the next time you’re in the area and we’ll check it out for you.
