Q: I own a 2020 Subaru Forester. The maintenance guide suggests a brake fluid flush every 30,000 miles/24 months. I have never owned any vehicle that has recommended this with such frequency. The brake fluid in the reservoir is very much a honey gold color but I presume this may not be indicative of the fluid circulating. Is this really necessary or is this one of the rare manufacturer maintenance recommendations that is not justified from a mechanical point of view?
G.K., Allentown, Pennsylvania
A: Brake hydraulic system designs may vary by manufacturer and may factor into maintenance schedules. You may be able to extend your fluid flushes by testing the brake fluid for signs of corrosion that can lead to ABS problems. A test strip product such as Strip Dip may show issues or possibly prove you may not need a fluid change.
