Topping brake fluid vs flushing it

[JoeCamel]

I just rechecked my master cylinder and cap…it is sealed

Nope, it has an expansion area for the fluid to use, if it didn't the brakes would apply when the fluid gets warm

 

[mkt]

In my experience, every 50-75k miles is about the time to flush AND replace your brake fluid. If the dealer is recommending it, I'd ask for photographic proof first, or take it to a well-rated independent mechanic to review it AND do the job.

 

[JoeCamel]

In my experience, every 50-75k miles is about the time to flush AND replace your brake fluid. If the dealer is recommending it, I'd ask for photographic proof first, or take it to a well-rated independent mechanic to review it AND do the job.

There is simple test for both water and copper to determine it's condition and wear but to just change it out as you describe works for me

 

[Lilofan]

In my experience, every 50-75k miles is about the time to flush AND replace your brake fluid. If the dealer is recommending it, I'd ask for photographic proof first, or take it to a well-rated independent mechanic to review it AND do the job.

My brake fluid color was turning dark brown at 70K miles so I went to Honda dealer to flush and fill and now the color is light brown. No issues in stopping power before or after the flush and fill. My 16’ Accord I bought new is trouble free except the battery replaced in 17’ under warranty. Have not replaced the brakes yet the tech said I have plenty of life left in the pads. Pays to drive a stick and not always relying riding the brake pedal to slow down.

 

[mkt]

My 16’ Accord I bought new is trouble free except the battery replaced in 17’ under warranty.

It's been 5 years. I'd proactively replace the battery soon. 5 years is way at the end of their lifespan.

 

[Lilofan]

It's been 5 years. I'd proactively replace the battery soon. 5 years is way at the end of their lifespan.

I replaced my factory Honda battery with the top of the line Die Hard platinum . What a difference in quality !

 

[mkt]

I replaced my factory Honda battery with the top of the line Die Hard platinum . What a difference in quality !

Oh, they're absolutely better - but 5 years is still towards the end of its usable life if its a lead-acid car battery.

 

[DW Aficionado]

nowadays, it seems to be recommended to flush the brake fluid every 3 years. I know it's a close system so why change it at all. I've heard that the ABS is intricate and expensive to replace so it is recommended to change the fluid. eh.

If you need to top your brake fluid then you have a leak and it is potentially dangerous. Under normal circumstances as the brake pads wear down, the fluid goes down since it has more room in the brake line. when you get new, thick, brake pades the calipers are pushed open again and the brake fluid fills the reservoir

 

[Duke of Disney]

Non-synthetic brake fluid is HYDROscopic in nature, meaning it sucks water through the brake lines - so after a certain amount of time it goes from clear to coca-cola looking - which is a good indicator that it's time to change.