Brake Fluid Service in Frederick, MD

Why do you need to change brake fluid?

The effects of old contaminated brake fluid might not be felt, or seen, right away but ignoring it can lead to costly repairs in the future! Even though brake fluid is in a sealed system, moisture from the surrounding air still works its way into the fluid. This happens through hoses, the fluid reservoir, and other parts of the brake system. When your brake fluid becomes contaminated with moisture it can change how your brake system operates. Water in the brake lines lowers the boiling point of the fluid, so stopping ability can diminish in hard stops as heat in the system increases. Also, over time the moisture can cause internal corrosion in the brake lines, calipers, the master cylinder, ABS parts, and other components. When this happens brake repairs are needed. Costly repairs caused by contaminated brake fluid can be avoided by having a brake flush done at regular intervals to change the fluid.

What is a brake fluid flush?

A brake flush is a service where the brake fluid is flushed/ pushed from the brake master cylinder, through the brake lines, hoses, anti lock brake module, calipers, and then is expelled through the brake bleeder screws located on the calipers. During the brake flush, the dirty fluid is replaced by clean, fresh, new brake fluid. All vehicles have a brake system and the brake systems all work using brake fluid.

How can you tell if your brake fluid needs flushing?

You might be able to tell it’s time for a brake fluid service by visually inspecting the condition of the fluid in the reservoir located on the master cylinder. Brake fluid is usually a very light amber color, but will darken with age, becoming murky from water contamination. If your brake fluid has a dark color it may be time to change it. A better way to check is to have it tested by a professional Frederick, MD auto maintenance and brake repair specialist for moisture and see what they recommend.

How often should brake fluid be flushed and serviced?

There is an easy answer to this. Even though vehicle manufacturers all have different recommendations, most cars should have their brake fluid flushed every 2 years or 30,000 miles. You can check your service manual to see what is recommended on your car.

Trusted for Auto repair in Frederick, MD since 1979!

Carriage House Automotive has been a trusted local, Frederick, MD brake repair shop since 1979. We also perform all types of general car repairs, check engine lights, tune ups, and much more. As a locally owned, family run, small business we pride ourselves in the service that we provide to our clients. We are excited to have been voted as Frederick’s Best Auto Repair service for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and one of the best in 2010, 2011. Give us a try to find out why! We really are ready to “Service everything your car needs.”