What does the brake fluid do?
The brake fluid is responsible for transferring the right amount of pressure from the brake pedal to the brakes. It's the only way your car will come to a reliable halt. The brake fluid has to meet some high demands.
Remains fluid, even in cold conditions:
Brake fluid can neither freeze nor become too viscous in frosty conditions.
Absorbs moisture:
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, i.e. it absorbs water, thereby stopping droplets from forming in the brake system. This prevents rust and a reduced braking capacity.
Higher boiling point:
Brake fluid cannot boil, as this would result in the formation of steam bubbles that act like air cushions and can be compressed. This would mean an incomplete transfer of the braking force to the brakes.
Why should the brake fluid be changed?
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. As a result, the amount of water in the brake system remains low. However, the amount in the brake fluid increases over time. If the amount of water is too high, the boiling point decreases, which may result in the formation of moisture bubbles. When you hit the brakes, these bubbles compress. This prevents the direct transfer of force between brake cylinder and brake and the braking force is lost. The brake fluid should therefore be changed on a regular basis.
Can I change the brake fluid myself?
Your brakes must be in reliable working order – for your safety and the safety of others. So, only allow trained professionals to carry out any work on your brakes.
When is it time to change the brake fluid?
For Volkswagen vehicles from model years 2008–2020, the brake fluid should be changed for the first time after three years – after that, we recommend changing it every two years. For Volkswagen vehicles from model year 2021 onwards, we also recommend changing it for the first time after two years.
If requested, we can change the brake fluid during your next inspection.