Importance of Flushing Brake Fluid
Don’t be like most drivers; don’t wait until your brakes stop working to think about them. Let us help you take better care of your brakes. When your advisor recommends that it is time that you get your brake system flushed, do you do it or save the cash?
DO IT!
Let us explain why. Braking systems can get quite filthy over time. Parts, like the rubber in the valves in the master cylinder, calipers and wheel cylinders deteriorate and all the nasty little bits that flake off end up in your brake fluid. But that is not all. Moisture can also sneak its way into the system. This all leads to rust build up and in return to a brake system with decreased stopping power.
Let’s try to think about it this way. You wouldn’t skip changing the air filter, would you? Similar to humans, your car’s engine must breathe. The purpose of the air filter is to filter the incoming air. Dirty air can reduce engine efficiency and cause damage. A clean air filter has many benefits, including improved gas mileage, better acceleration and increased engine life. And just like your car’s engine, brake fluid gets dirty and puts your vehicle at risk. It may not seem like a big deal when your service advisor is suggesting that you flush your brake fluid, but when you are swaying down a road, you will understand why keeping your brakes maintained is important.
Here’s a good way of remembering: Have it flushed every 64,000km or 4 years or so. Note that brake flushing and bleeding the brakes are two different procedures. Brake flushing involves removing all the brake fluid from the system and getting all-new, clean fluid inside. Brake bleeding just means removing enough brake fluid to get air bubbles out of the brake lines.
The brake fluid is not the only thing you should be monitoring on your car. Over time, your brake pads begin to wear thin, which means that they’ll become less effective at slowing down and eventually stopping. Attrell Toyota offers a maintenance service which includes:
– Replace engine oil and filter
– Remove & inspect engine air filter element (replace if required, additional charge)
– Lubricate locks, latches & hinges
– Confirm lights, horn & wipers function properly
– Check coolant, brake, transmission & washer fluid levels
– Perform battery service and comprehensive electrical charging system evaluation
– Inspect valve clearance (audibly)
– Inspect drive belts for damage, adjust tension if required
– Check steering gear box, linage and shock absorbers for looseness, damage or leakage
– Inspect ball joints and dust covers, driveshaft and steering rack boots, chassis nuts & bolts for looseness or damage
– Remove wheel and brake drum, check pad/shoe thickness. Examine brake calipers, wheel cylinders and brake lines
– Inspect fuel and exhaust systems for leaks or damage
– Examine tires for damage and wear, check & adjust pressure (rotate if required, additional charge)
– Perform road test
Call today to get more information for the services we offer our valued customers!
Attrell Toyota
905 451 7235