Brake Fluid Maintenance: A Key to Keeping Your Car Safe and Reliable

February 11, 2025

As kids, we all fantasized about what it would be like to have a car. Driving meant absolute freedom—roll the windows down, blast some music, and go wherever you want, whenever you want. It seemed simple. But as we got older, driving stopped being about adventure and started being about responsibility. Between work, errands, and maybe a family, our cars became less of a ticket to freedom and more of a necessity. Gone were the spontaneous road trips and midweek hangouts—it all became about getting from Point A to Point B.

Because we rely on our vehicles so much, we often take them for granted—until something goes wrong. We’ve all been there: The car breaks down, and suddenly, your entire week is upside down. Plans? Canceled. Budget? Blown. A broken car doesn’t just mess with your schedule, it messes with your peace of mind.

That’s why preventive maintenance is vital. It keeps your car running smoothly, allowing you to focus on everything else life throws your way. And when your car is well taken care of, you can stop worrying about breakdowns and start remembering what it feels like to just drive—not because you have to, but because you want to. And remember, you can plan maintenance. You can’t plan a repair.

Brakes: A Gateway Maintenance

One of the easiest ways to dip your toes into preventive maintenance is through brake care. Out of all the systems in your car, the safety systems—like seat belts, airbags, and traction control—are the most tangible. And your brakes? They’re at the top of that list.

We all know when our brakes need attention. The grinding sound, the sluggish response—it’s impossible to ignore. But there’s one part of brake maintenance that often gets overlooked: brake fluid.

Why Brake Fluid Matters

You might be thinking, “I maintain my brakes! I get my pads and rotors replaced when needed.” That’s great, but here’s the thing—do you ever replace your brake fluid?

Brake fluid is the unsung hero of your braking system. It transmits the input from your brake pedal to the components that stop your car. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air (it’s hygroscopic, if you want the technical term), which will eventually cause corrosion in your brake system, reduce braking power, a softer brake pedal and even lead to failure. Translation? Old, dirty brake fluid puts your safety at risk.

When to Change Brake Fluid

Many OEMs now recommend brake fluid exchanges as early as 2–3 years, with published mileage recommendations due to the importance of proper vehicle braking safety. Although some vehicles may suggest a longer interval, more frequent fluid changes help maintain the integrity of the brake system, extending its lifespan and preventing costly repairs.

The good news is that maintaining your brake fluid is simple. It is generally a quick service that can be done with a little extra time while your vehicle is getting an oil change. The master technicians at BG Products recommend getting it changed every 30,000 miles or every two years—whichever comes first.

The BG Brake Service Difference

Here’s where it gets even better: a BG Brake Service doesn’t just give you fresh brake fluid. It also comes with a Lifetime BG Protection Plan® that covers up to $4,000 in brake system repairs. Coverage includes such major components as the pump, valves, master cylinder, and brake calipers.

So, the next time you get your brakes or rotors replaced, don’t put brand-new brakes to work with old, dirty fluid—ask for a BG Brake Service. This way, you’ll know your brakes are in top shape, inside and out.

Keep Your Freedom Rolling

Maintaining your brake system, including the fluid, is one of the easiest ways to keep your car reliable. Because let’s face it, freedom isn’t just about where you can go; it’s about knowing you’ll get there safely.