Brake fluid quietly wears out long before the pads do. MTS Garage Services in Hayes can change it on cars, vans and 4x4s, and tell you what we find along the way.
Most drivers think about pads and discs and forget the fluid that does the pushing. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air over time. That moisture lowers its boiling point and can encourage corrosion inside calipers, pipes and the ABS unit, which are expensive parts to put right.
That is why makers set a time interval for changing it, usually counted in years rather than miles. If you are not sure when yours was last done, brake fluid replacement Hayes drivers can book with us is a straightforward job. We drain the old fluid, refill, bleed each wheel, and check the system as we go.
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which simply means it draws in water. A little is normal, but as the water content rises the fluid darkens and loses its ability to cope with heat. Under hard or repeated braking, such as a long descent or a loaded van, fluid that has boiled forms vapour, and vapour compresses. The pedal then feels soft or sinks towards the floor. Water also attacks metal from the inside, so seized caliper pistons and rusty brake pipes are common results of neglect. Fresh fluid is a small job compared with the repairs that old fluid can lead to.
A few things should prompt a check, even if you cannot recall the last change.
We check the reservoir level and condition first, then work through the system wheel by wheel, pushing old fluid out and bringing new fluid through until it runs clean. Cars with ABS or electronic stability systems can be more particular about how air is removed, so we follow the method that suits the vehicle. While the wheels are off or the brakes are accessible, we look at pad thickness, disc condition, flexible hoses and caliper movement, and tell you plainly if anything needs attention. Where you want upgraded components, we also fit and supply EBC brakes and accessories.
Brake fluid replacement is often done alongside a service or when pads and discs are replaced, because the system is already being worked on. Call us or get in touch with your vehicle details and tell us what the pedal feels like. Drivers from Southall, Hounslow and West Drayton are welcome as well as those nearby in Hayes. We will explain what the job involves for your car and agree the estimate before starting. If we find a leak or a worn hose, we will show you and explain the options rather than carry on regardless.
Call us on 0208 843 9091 or send the form below and tell us about your vehicle.
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Most manufacturers state an interval in years, commonly around two to three, regardless of mileage. Your handbook or service schedule gives the exact figure for your vehicle. If you do not know when it was last changed, it is reasonable to have the condition checked.
Topping up does not remove moisture or contamination, and a falling level usually means worn pads or a leak that needs looking at. It is better to have the level and condition checked, then replace the fluid properly if it is due.
Sometimes, particularly if air or boiled fluid is the cause. A soft pedal can also come from a leaking hose, a failing master cylinder or a worn caliper. We inspect the system so we fix the real cause rather than guess.
No. Fluids come in different grades and the right one depends on the vehicle and its brake system. Using the wrong type can damage seals or reduce performance, so we check what your car requires before filling.
Tell us about your vehicle and we will be in touch.
Prefer to talk? Call 0208 843 9091. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 8:30AM - 5:30PM, Saturday 9:00AM - 1:00PM, Sunday closed.
MTS Garage Services, 5 Chesterfield Way, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 3NW