Keep Your Car Running Smooth: Why Fluid Flushes Matter More Than You Think
Fluids are your vehicle’s lifeblood. Just like oil, other critical fluids like coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid degrade over time. If you ignore them, you risk costly repairs and compromised safety.
At Bret’s Auto Repair in Lynnwood, we help our customers understand not just when to flush fluids but why it matters for the health of your car.
What Is a Fluid Flush?
A fluid flush is the process of removing old, dirty fluid from a system and replacing it with clean, new fluid. This helps prevent buildup of contaminants that can corrode parts, reduce performance, or even cause failure.
Fluids You Should Never Skip Flushing
1. Brake Fluid
- Why it matters: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces braking power and can corrode internal components.
- When to flush: Every 2 years or 30,000 miles, or when fluid becomes dark or contaminated.
- Symptoms to watch for: Spongy brake pedal, reduced stopping power, or ABS warning light.
2. Coolant / Antifreeze
- Why it matters: Coolant keeps your engine from overheating and prevents freezing. Over time, it becomes acidic and loses effectiveness.
- When to flush: Every 50,000 miles or 5 years, depending on vehicle and climate.
- Symptoms to watch for: Engine runs hot, sweet smell, visible rust or sludge in the coolant reservoir.
3. Transmission Fluid
- Why it matters: It lubricates gears and keeps your transmission cool and shifting smoothly.
- When to flush: Every 30,000–60,000 miles, or sooner if you tow or drive in stop-and-go traffic.
- Symptoms to watch for: Rough or delayed shifting, slipping gears, or burnt smell.
4. Power Steering Fluid
- Why it matters: Old fluid causes poor steering response and can damage the pump.
- When to flush: Every 75,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
- Symptoms to watch for: Stiff or noisy steering, fluid leaks.
5. Differential & Transfer Case Fluids (for AWD/4WD)
- Why it matters: These fluids lubricate drivetrain components under extreme pressure.
- When to flush: Every 30,000–60,000 miles for optimal performance.
Don’t Fall for the “If It Ain’t Broke…” Myth
By the time symptoms show, damage may already be done. Preventive flushes:
- Save you money long-term
- Extend the life of critical components
- Help maintain factory warranty compliance
Trust Bret’s Auto Repair for Professional Fluid Maintenance
Our technicians use manufacturer-approved fluids and follow the factory-recommended schedule for your specific vehicle; no guessing, no upselling. Just what your car needs, when it needs it.
Located in Lynnwood, WA
Schedule your next fluid inspection or flush today:
Contact Bret’s Auto Repair