Brake fluid absorbs water out of the air over time, and water lowers the temperature at which the fluid boils while rusting the metal parts it touches. A brake fluid flush replaces the old fluid with fresh fluid of the correct specification. AutoTech Clinic tests the moisture content first at our Dearborn shop and shows you the reading before recommending a flush.
This is one of the cheapest services on a car and one of the most commonly skipped. It protects the ABS module, the calipers and the brake lines, all of which cost far more to replace.
- How Long
- About 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Same Day
- Usually finished the same day.
- Vehicles
- Foreign and domestic, cars through trucks.
Signs You Need Brake Fluid Flush
- The brake pedal feels soft or spongy, especially after repeated stops
- The fluid in the reservoir looks dark brown rather than light amber
- It has been more than two or three years since the last flush
- The brakes feel fine cold but fade on a long downhill
- A brake system warning light that is not a pad wear light
What We Do
- 01
Test the Fluid
We measure moisture content with a tester and check the fluid visually. If the reading is low we tell you to save your money.
- 02
Confirm the Right Specification
DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 are not interchangeable on every vehicle. We use the specification printed on your reservoir cap.
- 03
Flush Every Corner
We push fresh fluid through each wheel in the correct order until clean fluid runs clear, rather than just topping up the reservoir.
- 04
Cycle the ABS Where Required
Many vehicles hold old fluid inside the ABS module. On those we use the scan tool to cycle the pump so the module gets flushed too.
- 05
Check Pedal and Road Test
We confirm a firm high pedal and road test before the car goes back to you.
What Water in the Fluid Actually Does
Fresh DOT 4 fluid boils at around 450 degrees Fahrenheit. With three percent water absorbed, that drops by well over a hundred degrees. Brakes on a long downhill or in heavy stop and go traffic reach those temperatures easily, and when the fluid boils you get vapor in the line and a pedal that goes to the floor.
The same water quietly rusts the steel brake lines from the inside and corrodes the valves inside the ABS module. Those are expensive parts, and a flush on schedule is what keeps them healthy.
How Often Should It Be Done?
Most manufacturers call for a brake fluid service every two to three years regardless of mileage, because the fluid absorbs moisture whether you drive or not. Some European makers specify every two years without exception.
We test rather than go by the calendar alone. If your fluid is dry, we will tell you so and you can come back next year.
What Affects the Cost
We quote your vehicle specifically after inspecting it, because these are the things that move the number up or down:
- The fluid specification your vehicle requires
- Whether the ABS module needs a scan tool cycle
- How contaminated the old fluid is and how much it takes to run clean
- Any leak found during the flush that has to be repaired first
Call (313) 277-7200 with your year, make and model and we will tell you what to expect before you come in.
Why AutoTech Clinic
AAA Approved
An inspected facility that has to meet AAA standards for equipment and training.
Photos First
You see what we found and approve the price before anything is taken apart.
Same-Day Service
Parts on hand for the vehicles we see most, so you are not waiting on a delivery.