VW Brake Fluid Service

david

Hi,

Got a cambelt done on my MKIV GTI Golf last forthnight in a Main Dealer. They also did one of their "101 (or thereabouts) point Winter Safety" checks.

The service receptionist advised that I need brake pads (front) in 1-2k km. I had a look at them and they're still a few mm from the wear indicator 1800km later. I'm far from a hyper-miler that would rather ditch their car than waste kinetic energy on braking too.

I accepted that the pads will need to be done probably at next service but the strange thing was I was also informed that my car "badly needs a brake fluid service" which they conveniently have a special offer on. I'm far from a service engineer, and my knowledge of car internals is basic to say the least, but I've never heard of this being done other than when changing major brake components that necessitates flushing. I thought a top-up would suffice should the level drop?

Money making racket?

Henry Ford III

No brake fluid absorbs water so needs changing every couple of years.

matt70iu

david wrote: »

Hi,

Got a cambelt done on my MKIV GTI Golf last forthnight in a Main Dealer. They also did one of their "101 (or thereabouts) point Winter Safety" checks.

The service receptionist advised that I need brake pads (front) in 1-2k km. I had a look at them and they're still a few mm from the wear indicator 1800km later. I'm far from a hyper-miler that would rather ditch their car than waste kinetic energy on braking too.

I accepted that the pads will need to be done probably at next service but the strange thing was I was also informed that my car "badly needs a brake fluid service" which they conveniently have a special offer on. I'm far from a service engineer, and my knowledge of car internals is basic to say the least, but I've never heard of this being done other than when changing major brake components that necessitates flushing. I thought a top-up would suffice should the level drop?

Money making racket?

Have a 1.8t GTI myself. Well it depends. If your brake fluid is very black, it should be changed. Reason is the fluid breaks down over time and becomes less effective.

Check the brake fluid yourself and if it's dirty, I'd suggest changing it. Recently had to get the same done myself.

The dealers are more expensive but tend to be quite good at preventative maintenance. If you can find a good independent garage or mechanic, you'll save quite a few bob on labour costs over the main dealer.

EPM

Vag usually recommend every 2 years. Cost me €30 for it.

Nissan doctor

As above, For Vag and most car manufacturers the interval for brake fluid changes is every 2 years. You presumably don't have a properly completed service history as the brake fluid changes have to be recorded in the service book.