Brake Fluid Flush and Brake System Maintenance: Why They're Important

Maintain Your Vehicle's Stopping Power

Your brake system is a vital component of your vehicle. Without a functioning brake system, your vehicle’s stopping power is compromised, which increases the likelihood of a collision. Many drivers are mindful of the thickness of their brake pads and even the condition of their rotors, but not every driver pays attention to the condition of their brake fluid. In truth, your brake fluid is the lifeblood of your brake system, so it's important that this fluid is changed regularly and kept free of contaminants. 

At Gaynor's Automotive, maintaining a healthy brake system is easy. With the help of our expert mechanics, we can get your brake fluid changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure that your vehicle maintains its braking power. Let's take a look at the importance of a brake fluid flush and discover how this simple service can avoid the need for costly brake repair in the future. 

If you need brake service, be sure to schedule an appointment at Gaynor’s Automotive today.

The Importance of Healthy Brake Fluid

Your brake fluid functions as a hydraulic fluid that is pumped from your master cylinder through your brake lines and into your calipers. This process is what causes your brakes to squeeze onto your rotors and bring you to a stop. However, the system generates heat, and the heating and cooling of the fluid can introduce moisture to your system. While this doesn't sound so bad, moisture in your brake lines can be highly corrosive, which can lead to fluid loss or air in your system lines. 

It's extremely important to keep your brake lines clean and your fluid fresh because contaminants in your brake system can be detrimental to your stopping ability.

Schedule a Brake Fluid Flush Appointment

Understanding the Process of a Brake Fluid Flush 

During a brake fluid flush, one of our experts will first drain your system of your old and dirty brake fluid. Next, your mechanic will strategically clean out your braking system and remove any left-behind debris or dirt that could contaminate your new brake fluid. If it's been a while since your last brake fluid change, your brake lines could have rust or corrosion on them. If the problem gets too bad, you might find that your brake calipers or other metal components of your brake system need to be replaced.

Your brake system will be refilled with fresh fluid that meets or exceeds your manufacturer's standards before the system is tested to ensure that everything is operating as it should. Once your vehicle passes inspection, we’ll notify you that your vehicle is ready to get back on the road. 

Learn Your Recommended Change Intervals 

It's generally recommended that you change your brake fluid every two years or every 30,000 miles (whichever occurs first). This interval is designed to minimize the chances of excess corrosion while ensuring that your brake system achieves optimal performance. 

How often your particular vehicle needs a brake fluid flush will vary greatly depending on your individual driving style. For example, if you drive for extended periods of time on the highway, your brake system will experience less wear and tear than if you drive on city roads. This means that you may be able to go longer intervals between brake fluid flushes. In contrast, heavy brake usage, such as during urban driving or when towing, may mean that you need brake service more often. 

There are instances where it may be a good idea to replace your fluid even sooner. Here are a few examples of when you might want to consider performing a brake fluid flush sooner rather than later:

• If brakes have overheated
• If your brake fluid has boiled
• After a race day
• After off-roading

We recommend that you consult your owner’s manual or discuss your vehicle’s particular needs with one of our mechanics if you need advice. 

Understanding the Need for Brake Repair and Maintenance

Some drivers may hear their brake system making strange noises or behaving strangely and believe that a brake fluid flush can fix these issues. The truth is that your brake system is a complex element of your vehicle that handles extreme stresses as it works to slow your vehicle throughout your journey. 

If your vehicle is displaying brake-related warning lights,  it may need brake repair services. Thankfully, at Gaynor’s Automotive, we can handle all of the brake repair services that your vehicle needs. From a problem with your brake lines to a faulty master cylinder, our ASE-certified mechanics can handle all your vehicle's brake maintenance and auto repair needs.

Schedule Brake Service at Gaynor’s Automotive Today

At Gaynor’s Automotive, trustworthy brake fluid flush services are just a few clicks away.  We offer a convenient online scheduling system that allows you to schedule the date and time you want to bring in your vehicle in just seconds. In addition to our competitive pricing and friendly customer service, we feature fantastic brake service and car repair coupons that help you save money on your most needed services. We perform maintenance and repair services on all make and model vehicles, and we welcome you to schedule service today.

Schedule an appointment at Gaynor’s Automotive and trust your brake system in the hands of the experts.