Changing the braking fluids or engine coolant first?
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Newest Of Newbies
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 25
From: Houston, TX
Changing the braking fluids or engine coolant first?
So I had my oil change today, after getting an estimate for fixing my car's paint. The guy said that I need to change my brake fluids and my engine's coolant. He said that if I had to pick between the 2 I should change the coolant because it's very low. How important is it to change these two things? should I take his advise and change the coolant?
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Newest Of Newbies
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 25
From: Houston, TX
It's a 2005 accord lx, the mileage is around 69k and I'm not sure when was the last time the coolant was changed because my dad gave me this car
Almost A Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 227
From: Huntington Beach, Ca.
Coolant is important and vital to the life of the engine. If it is low, at least top it off with a 50/50 water/cooolant mix until you can have it changed. Don't drive the car until you do this, or serious damage may occur. Top off the brake fluid if needed, but you really need to pay attention to the coolant being low.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 18,398
From: Wisconsin
Honda factory-fill coolant has a pretty long lifespan. Book probably says 10 years but I might change it now.
On the other hand, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air & that makes it corrosive. Most people say to change it every 2 or 3 years regardless of miles. Brakes are important too, especially if you're driving behind my daughter's car.
On the other hand, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air & that makes it corrosive. Most people say to change it every 2 or 3 years regardless of miles. Brakes are important too, especially if you're driving behind my daughter's car.
Super Moderator
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 16,329
From: Houston, TX
Coolant change interval is 10 years or 120K miles for an 05 accord. If the overflow tank is low, just add the correct coolant to the fill line. Add some to the radiator if it is not completely filled up. Only remove the radiator cap when the engine is cold. The owners manual calls for Honda All Season Antifreeze/Coolant Type 2. All of the coolant doesn't need to be changed. Keep a close eye on the coolant level after you top off the fluids as you might have a leak. This is something you can do yourself.
I would have the brake fluid changed. Honda recommends the Honda heavy duty dot 3 fluid, but I would say that any heavy duty dot 3 fluid will work. This should be done every three years.
I would have the brake fluid changed. Honda recommends the Honda heavy duty dot 3 fluid, but I would say that any heavy duty dot 3 fluid will work. This should be done every three years.
Super Moderator
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 11,834
From: Kenton, TN
Now back to the issue, I lean towards the brake fluid as well.
Top the coolant off, however if there is a leak causing the issue that is a differnet story but upon repairing that leak, then flush.
