break fluid change how often?

beachBOYken · 29 Aug 2019 at 12:35

Hi

On my Ford focus I believe its recommended to have a break fluid change every 2 years, should I stick to that .

I wonder if its actually necessary to get it changed that often as some car manufactures suggest 3+ years I believe.

Does anyone go longer without changing it?

beachBOYken · 29 Aug 2019 at 12:47

Phemo said:
It is meant to be every 2 years but I've left some of my cars for 3 years or so without any problems. I've got one of those electronic brake fluid tester pens that I check the fluid out with every so often to make sure it hasn't absorbed too much moisture so I just keep tabs on it with that when I know it's beyond the point it should be changed.

I normally get it changed at a service, and a break fluid change is about £50 I think, which is why I wanted to leave it until next year when it has a minor service, my car has major this year, I know these things can be done myself, but I would rather get someone else to do it.

beachBOYken · 29 Aug 2019 at 22:29

ahenners said:
At £50 it's £25 a year over the recommended interval. Is it even worth going against the manufacturer's recommended interval? If it's due this year and you have a service this year, get it done then. If it's due next year and you will have a service then, get it done then. I'm not really sure why it matters on the minor Vs major service?

Thanks for all the responses, as for the major vs minor, I was just stating that due to the service price difference, wanted to save some money where I can, but I think I will just get it changed this year.

beachBOYken · 30 Aug 2019 at 08:38

Simon said:
Wow at this thread, we are taking about brakes here. Why would you mess about? And yes ‘it’s been fine’ is because you haven’t got into a situation when the fluid would boil. This is pure luck rather than alpha male skills/***** cost saving.

Not quite sure who's post you was referring to, I only asked the original question just because I heard that some other car manufacturers recommendation is 2-3years + , maybe its 2 years recommendation from all of them now though. For your peace of mind I got the break fluid changed exactly 2 years ago and have been since I owned the car. Just wanted to be sure my dealership aren't just trying it on when it might not be needed, as they ask me if I want it changed before they have even looked at the car and checked if does need changing.