You don’t need to change your brake fluid but consider this. When the brake fluid indicates high copper content levels, the additives in the fluid are breaking down. It increases acid levels and produces erosion of parts and possible damage to Anti-Lock Brake System parts.

The answer is as often as your owner’s manual suggests. Some brands recommend new brake fluid as often as every two years. You also have to change your brake fluid if it contains too much copper. This chemical element measured in parts per million, and the industry limit is 200 ppm. Any more than this number and the fluid no longer satisfies design specifications and should be replaced.

All brake pads and rotors wear down. The rate at which this manifests depends on your driving style. Vehicles that drive in town with plenty of stop-and-gos will deplete brake friction material much quicker than cars that drive primarily on freeways. Vehicle loads are the other factor. The heavier your vehicle is, the more braking power it needs to stop.

Brake squeals are induced by the spring clips losing tension, brake pads vibrating, or improper brake pad fit on the caliper. If you hear grinding noise when you stop, you’re probably hearing your brake pad’s metal backing touching the rotor since the brake pad material has entirely worn away.

If you need to press the brake pedal harder or farther than usual to stop, there could be a mechanical or hydraulically brake issue. Bring your vehicle in for a check as soon as possible.