How Often to Change Brake Fluid

Many Hyundai drivers ask themselves when to change brake fluid, whether in a brand-new model or one that has seen many miles. This is a part of your upkeep and long-term maintenance and shouldn't be skipped. Typically, Hyundai recommends routine brake fluid flushes and replacements, following the make and model of your car, truck, or SUV. The general rule of thumb is between 30,000 and 45,000 miles, although we will get into this further below. Stay tuned!

What is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic brake and hydraulic clutch applications for cars, trucks, SUVs, and anything with an engine and brake system. Generally, you will need this refreshed every X number of miles, as it plays a key role in your Hyundai's ability to slow and stop correctly. By definition, brakes work via pressurized hydraulic fluid squeezing the brake pad friction material against the surface of the rotating brake disc, creating a slowing or stopping effect for your model.

You replace the brake fluid to enable this to keep happening as intended. Without new brake fluid, your brakes have a harder time activating.

Signs You Need a Brake Fluid Change

Regarding the signs and symptoms that tell you when to change brake fluid, there are many to watch for. Usually, drivers notice things like a soft/bouncy/spongy brake pedal, an ABS dashboard light, ineffective braking, odd sounds coming from the brakes, burning smells when slowing or stopping, vibrations at the brakes and steering, or generally bad fluid quality and levels. All of these point toward you needing a brake fluid change, which the experts at Colonial Hyundai can help with.

Burnt Odor or Discoloration

One warning symptom of bad brake fluid needing a change is a burning smell or discoloration in your system's liquids. While driving, you may pick up an odd scent, similar to something on fire, which means you have low/bad fluid.

Lower Fluid Level

Your brake fluid will begin to fall under the designated fill line at the 30,000-45,000 mile mark. When this happens, you will notice strange sounds, smells, and performance from your brakes. This is easy to remedy; you just need our team to flush and fill your system with fluid.

Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal

As your Hyundai ages, a soft or spongy brake pedal can be a direct symptom of low brake fluid and issues with your system's ability to create the required friction to slow or stop. Once you have more fluid added to your brakes, this should subside.

Unresponsive Brake Pedal

Another sign that lets you know when to change brake fluid is if your brake pedal begins feeling unresponsive or there is enough delay that worries you. Delayed brakes are one of the alarming symptoms of a system needing inspection and repair, so we recommend swinging by our service center as soon as possible in this event.

Brake Fluid Leaks

One reason your Hyundai could need more brake fluid is there is a leak present. When this happens, your brake fluid can escape through holes or loose areas within the brake system, causing the need for more frequent flushes and fills. You will want an expert to inspect and repair the leak before adding brake fluid.

Vibrating Brakes

Another symptom associated with low or bad brake fluid is vibrating brakes and steering. If this is the case, you will feel your steering wheel and the brake pedal/floor surrounding it vibrate or rattle when braking. You could even have burning smells and leaks alongside vibrations, making everyday driving more challenging.

Activated ABS Warning Light

If you see an ABS warning light flash or illuminate on your dashboard, your brake fluid is low enough to trigger your Hyundai's internal computers to flag this. The longer you wait, the more serious your brake symptoms will get, leading to more extensive repairs. Always keep an eye on the dashboard, especially if you experience odd performance on the road.

How to Check Brake Fluid

To know when to change brake fluid, you want to follow these steps to verify the brake fluid level:

1. Locate the brake fluid reservoir (generally under the hood on the master cylinder).
2. Inspect the brake fluid color and level, noting low/dirty-looking consistency.
3. Add a Hyundai-approved brake fluid into the reservoir (follow the fill line).
4. Secure your hood in place, check your dashboard, and you're done!

How Often Should You Change Brake Fluid?

You should change the brake fluid in your Hyundai car, truck, or SUV every 30,000 to 45,000 miles or every 2-3 years on the road. Most people will set this appointment with one of our service providers every two years or whenever their ABS light pops up on the dash, but this can vary for everyone. If you notice irregular smells, sounds, feelings, or performance on the road, this is the time to schedule a brake fluid replacement. Pre-owned and older Hyundai vehicles may also need frequent brake checks and flushes.

Regardless, Colonial Hyundai is skilled in these services and has no issue bringing your car in for a fluid flush and change. Brake maintenance is one of the most important on a vehicle, so make sure to schedule bi-annual inspections.

Why Choose Colonial Hyundai for Your Brake Fluid Change?

For drivers in New London, CT, needing reputable, affordable, and fast brake fluid changes, Colonial Hyundai is the place to go. We offer care for new and used Hyundai's Monday through Friday and focus on premier service from start to finish. Your brakes should be serviced by a skilled, Hyundai-approved provider, which is why our location stands out. Don't wait until it's too late; schedule a brake fluid change today! If you are not sure, our technicians will let you know when to change brake fluid.

Schedule Service at Colonial Hyundai

The next time you require Hyundai brake fluid flushes, changes, or system inspections, trust that the pros at Colonial Hyundai in New London, CT, will be here to help. We handle everything from brake checks to fluid changes and broader system overhauls, so please do not hesitate to call or swing by the service center today. Drive safe!