How To Change Your Brake Fluid: A Comprehensive Guide For 2019 Honda Fit Owners

So, you’ve decided it’s time to tackle one of the most important maintenance tasks for your 2019 Honda Fit: changing the brake fluid. This ain’t just some random task you can skip out on, folks. Your brake fluid is like the lifeblood of your braking system, and if it gets contaminated or old, it could spell disaster on the road. How to change your brake fluid might sound intimidating, but trust me, with the right steps and tools, it’s totally doable. Let’s dive in!

Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why this matters. Brake fluid doesn’t just sit there in your car doing nothing. It plays a critical role in ensuring your brakes respond quickly and efficiently when you need them most. Over time, though, it can absorb moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and compromises its performance. That’s where you come in—yes, you! You can save yourself some serious cash by doing this yourself instead of heading to the dealership.

And hey, if you’re thinking, “But I don’t know how to do this!” don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide that breaks everything down so even a total newbie can handle it. By the end of this article, you’ll be swapping out that old brake fluid like a pro mechanic. Let’s roll!

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Table of Contents:

• Why You Should Change Your Brake Fluid
• Tools You’ll Need for the Job
• Preparing Your 2019 Honda Fit
• Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Brake Fluid
• Common Issues and How to Fix Them
• Pro Tips for a Smoother Process
• How Often Should You Change Brake Fluid?
• Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Wrapping It All Up

Why You Should Change Your Brake Fluid

First things first, let’s talk about why changing your brake fluid is such a big deal. Brake fluid isn’t invincible—it can degrade over time, especially if it absorbs moisture from the environment. When that happens, the boiling point of the fluid drops, which means your brakes might not work as effectively, especially under heavy braking conditions. And nobody wants to find out their brakes aren’t working when they’re cruising down a steep hill, right?

Here’s the kicker: brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it naturally attracts and absorbs water. This water can lead to corrosion inside your brake system, which could cause expensive repairs down the line. Regularly flushing and replacing your brake fluid helps prevent these issues and keeps your car running smoothly.

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What Happens if You Ignore Brake Fluid Maintenance?

If you ignore your brake fluid for too long, you’re setting yourself up for trouble. The moisture buildup can lead to:

• Corroded brake lines and calipers
• Reduced braking performance
• Potential brake failure in extreme cases

Bottom line? Don’t neglect this crucial maintenance task. Your safety depends on it!

Tools You’ll Need for the Job

Alright, let’s talk about what you’ll need to get the job done. Changing brake fluid doesn’t require a ton of fancy equipment, but having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on your vehicle’s specifications)
• A turkey baster or brake bleeder kit
• A clean container to catch old fluid
• A wrench or socket set (usually 8mm or 10mm)
• Rubber gloves to protect your hands
• A helper (optional, but super helpful)

Pro tip: Always double-check your owner’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct type of brake fluid for your 2019 Honda Fit. Using the wrong fluid can damage your braking system, so it’s not something you want to mess around with.

Preparing Your 2019 Honda Fit

Before you dive into the actual process, you’ll want to make sure your car is ready for the job. Park your Honda Fit on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. If you’re working under the car, use jack stands for added safety—safety first, folks!

Here are a few prep steps to follow:

• Make sure the engine is cool to avoid burns.
• Wipe down the brake fluid reservoir cap to prevent dirt from falling into the system.
• Have a clean workspace to keep everything organized.

Once everything’s prepped and ready, you’re good to go. Let’s move on to the main event!

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Brake Fluid

Now that you’ve got your tools and your car ready, let’s walk through the process step by step. This might seem like a lot at first, but trust me, it’s easier than it sounds.

Step 1: Open the Brake Fluid Reservoir

Start by locating the brake fluid reservoir under the hood of your Honda Fit. It’s usually a small plastic container near the firewall on the driver’s side. Carefully remove the cap and set it aside.

Step 2: Remove Old Brake Fluid

Using your turkey baster or brake bleeder kit, carefully suction out the old brake fluid from the reservoir. Be sure to dispose of the old fluid properly—it’s hazardous waste and shouldn’t be poured down the drain.

Step 3: Add Fresh Brake Fluid

Fill the reservoir with fresh brake fluid, making sure not to overfill. Keep the cap off and loosely placed on top while you work to prevent contamination.

Step 4: Bleed the Brakes

This is where things get a little more hands-on. You’ll need to bleed each brake caliper one at a time, starting with the one farthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger-side caliper). Attach your bleeder kit to the bleeder valve and have your helper press the brake pedal while you open the valve. Repeat this process until the fluid coming out is clear and free of air bubbles.

Step 5: Check and Refill

After bleeding each caliper, check the brake fluid reservoir and refill as needed. Once all four calipers have been bled, you’re almost done!

Step 6: Test the System

Before you call it a day, take your Honda Fit for a quick test drive to ensure the brakes feel firm and responsive. If everything checks out, congratulations—you’ve successfully changed your brake fluid!

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even the best-laid plans can go awry sometimes. Here are a few common issues you might encounter while changing your brake fluid and how to fix them:

• Leaking Fluid: If you notice fluid leaking from the bleeder valve, tighten the valve and ensure the bleeder kit is properly attached.
• Air in the Lines: If the brakes still feel spongy after bleeding, you may need to repeat the process or consult a professional.
• Contaminated Fluid: If the new fluid becomes cloudy or discolored, it may have been contaminated. Start over with fresh fluid and a clean reservoir.

Remember, patience is key. If something doesn’t seem right, take a break and revisit the problem with fresh eyes.

Pro Tips for a Smoother Process

Here are a few pro tips to make the process smoother and more efficient:

• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling brake fluid fumes.
• Use a flashlight to illuminate hard-to-see areas under the hood.
• Keep a supply of clean rags handy to wipe up any spills.

These small tips can make a big difference in your overall experience. Plus, they’ll help you avoid costly mistakes that could lead to bigger problems down the road.

How Often Should You Change Brake Fluid?

So, how often should you be changing your brake fluid? Most manufacturers recommend doing it every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, it’s always a good idea to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your 2019 Honda Fit.

Keep in mind that if you live in a humid climate or drive in extreme conditions, you may need to change your brake fluid more frequently. Regular checks and maintenance can help you stay on top of things and avoid surprises.

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Let’s talk numbers. Doing this job yourself can save you a significant amount of money compared to taking it to a professional. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• DIY Cost: Around $10-$20 for brake fluid and a few bucks for tools if you don’t already own them.
• Professional Cost: Anywhere from $100-$200, depending on the shop and location.

That’s a pretty big difference, right? Plus, you’ll gain valuable knowledge and skills that you can apply to future projects. Win-win!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers. Here are some of the most common questions people have about changing brake fluid:

Q: Can I mix different types of brake fluid?

A: Absolutely not! Mixing different types of brake fluid can cause serious damage to your braking system. Always use the type specified in your owner’s manual.

Q: What happens if I don’t change my brake fluid?

A: Over time, old brake fluid can absorb moisture, leading to reduced braking performance and potential system failure. It’s not worth the risk.

Q: Can I change brake fluid without bleeding the brakes?

A: Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Bleeding ensures that all old fluid and air bubbles are removed, giving you the best possible performance.

Wrapping It All Up

Changing your brake fluid might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it’s totally manageable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to keep your 2019 Honda Fit’s braking system in top shape and save yourself some serious cash in the process.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your tools, roll up your sleeves, and get to work. And when you’re done, don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Who knows, you might just inspire someone else to tackle their own brake fluid change!

Stay safe out there, and happy wrenching!