Weekly Car Tip: Replacing Brake Fluid

Braking systems aren't indestructible. Certain parts, like the rubber in the valves in the master cylinder, calipers and wheel cylinders deteriorate. The little bits that flake off end up in your brake fluid. In addition, the fluid itself can get old and worn out. Moisture can also get in the system. That leads to rust, which leads to more bits in your brake fluid. All this adds up to a brake system with compromised effectiveness and decreased stopping power.  A good rule of thumb is to have your brakes flushed about every 30,000 miles or so.