Brakes & suspension · Sant Andreu
Brake fluid change in Barcelona
The most neglected safety maintenance on any car. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over the years and loses effectiveness exactly when you need it most: on long, demanding braking.
What does this service include at Tallers Marathon?
Moisture percentage measured, complete replacement with the correct type (DOT) and a full circuit bleed.
- Moisture measurementAbove 3% water, the fluid is due for replacement.
- Correct fluid typeDOT 4, DOT 4 LV or whatever your manufacturer specifies.
- Complete bleedAll four wheels and, where applicable, the clutch circuit.
- Leak checkHoses, unions and cylinders inspected during the bleed.
Why change the brake fluid if the car brakes fine?
Because it is hygroscopic: it absorbs ambient moisture, and water boils long before the fluid does. In demanding braking, that moisture turns to vapour and the pedal sinks to the floor. It brakes fine… until the day it does not.
It is the most treacherous failure there is, because it gives no warning in daily use: around town, at low speeds, fluid with 4% water brakes apparently the same. The problem appears on the long descent from Tibidabo or in a Meridiana traffic jam in mid-August, when circuit temperature climbs and the moisture boils. The measurement takes one minute and we do it free at any service; if your car is over two years old and the fluid has never been changed, consider it due. It pairs well with a pad change.
Frequently asked questions
What is DOT 4 and which does my car use?
It is the fluid classification by boiling point and viscosity. Most current cars use DOT 4 or DOT 4 LV; we check your model’s specification.
Can new fluid be mixed with old?
Topping up in an emergency, yes; as maintenance it makes no sense: the moisture stays inside. The right job is replacing and bleeding the full circuit.
How long does it take?
Around an hour on most vehicles. You can wait at the garage.
Is the brake warning light the fluid?
It can be low level, pad wear or the handbrake: checked on the spot. With that light on, better not to drive without having it looked at.
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