Car maintenance: What is the usage lifespan of brake fluid?

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This post was last edited by cflt111 on 2016-9-26 08:07. Car maintenance: What is the service life of brake fluid? Actually, brake fluid is the same as braking fluid. There are three types of brake fluid: castor oil-alcohol type, synthetic type, and mineral oil type. Each of these types has its own specific functions. However, when it comes to using brake fluid, it is most important to know how often it needs to be replaced. 　　Because this affects safety issues; whether it is for one’s own safety or the safety of friends and family, it is something that all drivers should understand and strictly follow. 　　To know how often brake fluid needs to be replaced, it is necessary to understand the properties of brake fluid. As mentioned earlier, there are three main categories in total. The castor oil-alcohol type is composed of 45% to 55% castor oil mixed with a low-carbon alcohol in the same concentration; after prolonged settling, a colorless liquid is obtained. Sometimes a colored liquid is produced as well. Whether the liquid is colorless or yellow, it shares one common feature: it is transparent. Synthetic oils, on the other hand, are made by combining chemicals such as ethers, alcohols, and esters with substances that provide lubrication and antioxidant properties, making them easy to formulate. There is also the mineral oil type, which is the most refined type of brake fluid. 　　As brake fluid, it must be able to maintain its ability to transmit force effectively even under harsh conditions such as high temperatures and high speeds. Furthermore, it is necessary to ensure that brake fluid does not cause corrosion to other systems and components in the vehicle; good brake fluid also does not undergo significant changes over time, maintaining its stable chemical properties. 　　A new type of brake fluid has emerged today – silicone brake fluid. This type of brake fluid is made from ethylene glycol and has a very low boiling point; it is also extremely chemically stable, making it the new generation of organic brake fluids. 　　However, no matter how good the brake fluid is, drivers still need to know how often it should be replaced, because only by ensuring the quality of the brake fluid can problems be avoided. 　　Furthermore, as a driver, in addition to knowing the service life of brake fluid, one should also be aware of how to replace it. 　　When the driver notices a lack of brake fluid, it should be replenished promptly; otherwise, it can cause the car’s brakes to become less responsive, which is very dangerous. 　　When changing the brake fluid, one must also be careful to avoid mixing it with gasoline, diesel, or water during the replacement process. If such a situation occurs, it is necessary to replace the brake fluid with fresh fluid; otherwise, it can pose serious risks.