brake fluid change. how often or ever?

[vibedrivermatt]

Hey I was wondering how often you guys would do a complete brake fluid flush to replace the fluid. I was watching a car show think it was motor week or I forget and it had a maintenance tip recommending the brake fluid be changed every two years. They said this is because water can get in the fluid over time and wear out the fittings and stuff. Just wondering because my 09er is just coming up on its two year b-day. Im thinking of doing this as well as its other two year stuff. basically looks like the only other thing they want for it is to have the belts checked. Anybody know a DIY for the brake fluid? would you bother changing it? I've checked the maintenance schedule in the owners manual and it says nothing about changing it. thanks.

[star_deceiver]

Flush it when you change the pads.When you're bleeding the brakes, add fluid and keep pumping the brake pedal until the fluid runs clear. Do it at all 4 wheels and the clutch bleeder too! The 09-10 Vibes brakes and clutch are on the same system.

[Caretaker]

If I have Pat Goss' garage at my disposal, to include his team of mechanics, yep, I'm changing it every 2 years. Now back to reality. I have only changed my '03 vibe's fluid once in 120,000 miles (and it was done at around the 110,000 mile mark). I think doing it when your pads/rotors are changed is certainly a sufficient enough interval. Two years: no way.

[djkeev]

Brake fluid is probably the most neglected maintenance item, I color myself guilty even as I write this. I do all my own auto repair work, mostly alone, it helps to have an extra person and quite honestly it is a PAIN to do!! My "helpers" grew up, went off to college got married and now don't live at home any longer to help Dad.Car makers have taken brake fluid changes off of the suggested maintenance schedule. I believe they've do so to keep the costs of service down to a minimum. (same goes for suggesting Auto Trans oil changes at 100,000!.....DON'T believe it) If you plan on driving your car past 100,000 miles, I agree that changing the brake fluid every 2 years will prevent expensive brake or clutch hydraulic system repairs (clutches use brake fluid). Old dirty brake fluid will gum up the rubber parts inside the system and cause brake parts such as pipes and cylinders to rust inside because of the moisture absorbed into the fluid.Brake fluid naturally attracts and absorbs moisture (hygroscopic) it will need to be changed. The color of the fluid is often a good indication of its current state. Check it yourself with a flashlight; yellow to amber means it's OK for now, amber to light brown (or darker) means it is time for a change. Brake fluid is almost clear when new, a very slight amber color. Driving habits and road conditions will also have an effect on brake fluid longevity. The more you step on the brake, the more heat you create, the more everything is moving thus the quicker brake fluid will need to be changedKeep in mind if you do this task yourself, DO NOT SPILL IT ON THE PAINT!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is absolutely true that brake fluid left on paint over time WILL lift that paint off the car. Wipe up your spills.My opinions anyway......Dave

[MarkM04]

As for a DIY.Crack the bleader, and keep the master cylinder full.This will gravity blead the system. You can do one wheel at time, or more then one, but just don't let the m/c go dry.

[Water boy]

I use this http://www.harborfreight.com/c...37201When I do the pads of shoes.I always open the bleeder screw and push the piston back into the caliper. I don't like pushing the fluid upstream. Kinda like a mini flush.