What do the auto makers say about fluid changes? General Motors and Chrysler do not mention brake fluid in their scheduled maintenance recommendations. A General Motors spokesman said Delco Supreme 11 DOT 3 brake fluid contains additives than many other brake fluids do not, so it is essentially a lifetime fluid. Starting in 1993, GM began using a new type of rubber brake hose with an EPM lining and outer jacketing that reduces moisture penetration by 50%. So GM does not consider fluid contamination to be a significant problem.<br /><br />Ford, however, recently changed its position and now recommends fresh fluid every 36,000 miles or three yearsand to replace the fluid each time the brake pads are changed.<br /><br />Several import vehicle manufacturers also recommend fluid changes for preventative maintenance. BMW says the fluid should be changed every two years. Honda recommends a flush & fill every 25,000 to 30,000 miles. Subaru also recommends a 30,000 mile fluid change. Volkswagen recommends changing the fluid every two years, and clearly states this in their owners manuals.<br /><br />If motorists would only follow this simple advice to change their brake fluid periodically, they could greatly reduce the risks associated with moisture-contaminated brake fluid. The could extend the life of their brake systems and likely save themselves a lot of money in the long runespecially if their vehicle is equipped with ABS (you know how expensive ABS modulators are to replace!).<br />
