Our clubman service engine light just came on when starting an then goes off after a short while [so the wife explains to me] I call our dealer and explain that I change oil every 3000 even when the spec's say 15,000. He says it is the brake fluid that is in need of change. 13,000 miles and needs new brake fluid. Give me a brake! Do any of you other owners change brake fluid every two years or 13,000 miles. American auto's and truck do not need this kind of maintenance.

 

Brake fluid absorbs moisture which decreases it's effectiveness at high temp and should be flushed every few years, regardless of mileage. Check your owner's manual.

If it is the check engine light then you need to get a code reader and see if any codes are set.

 

They do now..

ABS/Traction control parts are expensive.

Euro cars have done this for years.. Mainly to prevent the breakdown of the fluid boiling point due to moisture..

It also helps prolong the ABS/ Traction control valves and pumps...

For years in America brake fluid was one of the forgotten fluids of the north.. Along with coolant and trans fluid... Change the fluids like your supposed to ensure the longest life of hardware.

 

Yes you are suppose to change the brake fluid every two years in ANY car. Like posted above brake fluid is designed to absorb moisture so you don't get moisture in the brake system. After 2 years brake fluid is considered wet and can't absorb anymore moisture. Many times we find that after changing brake fluid after the 2yrs or more the brake pedal will be firmer and you will have a better brake feel. And you don't have to worry about failures from moisture or rust in the brake system.

 

Is there any ATE Blue out there to be had? None of my suppliers have any and I can’t find any online.

I am sure that warehouse that has the Arc also has pallets full of the stuff.

Anyone know a guy?

///Rich

 

Good luck finding the ATE Blue since it is now illegal because of it being blue.

 

I have an unopened can in my basement.

 

Is that an offer to sell? I am interested if it is.

///Rich

 

I let MINI do a brake flush every two years, whether we need it or not. I'll also get the brakes flushed before taking the MINIs on track.

As the service is covered under the US included maintenance, are you not in the US then?

 

The next knock on the door could be the TSA coming to confiscate that Blue...