Look Behind The Scenes Of A Brake Flush Appointment

How Does A Brake Flush Work?

There is more to a vehicle’s brake maintenance than just replacing hardware like shoes, rotors, and pads. The very fluid that makes the entire system work needs attention from time to time. Experts suggest replacing the fluid and flushing the system every two years. But, how does a brake flush appointment work? Educated customers are the happiest customers. Our team thought it would be helpful to explain how a brake flush works so Downtown Tyee Chevrolet customers know what to expect. Let’s take a closer look.

READ MORE: Schedule a Brake Flush With Us Today!

What Happens During a Brake Flush Appointment?

A brake flush appointment starts with one of our expert technicians checking the condition of your brake fluid. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which lowers its boiling point and can lead to reduced braking performance. If the fluid looks dark or contaminated, that’s a clear sign it’s time for a flush. The rest of the steps include:

• Remove Old Fluid — The next step is draining the old fluid from the master cylinder and brake lines. Specialized equipment is often used to pull the fluid out without introducing air into the system. This step ensures that all the worn-out, contaminated fluid is completely removed.
• Clearing Brake Lines — Depending on the vehicle and the level of contamination, technicians may use cleaning solutions to help clear out any deposits or debris from the lines. This ensures the new brake fluid won’t be compromised.
• Replace With New Fluid — Once the old fluid is out, fresh manufacturer-recommended brake fluid is added to the system. This fluid is designed to handle high heat, protect against corrosion, and deliver reliable stopping power.
• Bleed Air Out — Air in the brake lines can cause a soft or spongy brake pedal, so the system must be carefully bled. This step removes any trapped air bubbles and ensures even pressure across all four brakes.
• Testing — Finally, the technician tests the brakes to make sure everything feels firm, responsive, and safe. Once complete, you can drive with confidence knowing your brakes are operating at their best.

Are There Different Types of Brake Fluid?

Like anything else in the automotive industry, there are different types of brake fluid for different vehicle types and applications. The two main types of brake fluid consist of either glycol- or silicone-based fluids. 

Glycol-Based Brake Fluids

• DOT 3 — The most common type of brake fluid used by many modern, light-duty vehicles.
• DOT 4 — Similar to DOT 3 with a borate ester compound added. This addition raises both dry and wet boiling points. It’s used in higher-performance vehicles with brakes that generate more heat.
• DOT 5.1 — An improved version of DOT 4 fluid that has an even higher boiling point. It’s commonly used by advanced or complex antilock braking systems.

Silicone-Based Brake Fluid

• DOT 5 — The silicone-based brake fluid doesn’t absorb moisture. It’s commonly used for restored older vehicles and is not often recommended for modern automotive braking systems.

Make an appointment with the Downtown Tyee Chevrolet Service Department if it has been a while since your brakes have been serviced, or you might need a brake flush appointment.