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2021 Dodge Journey Crossroad Brake Fluid Flush - Necessary?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:18 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Dodge Journey Crossroad

My 2021 Dodge Journey Crossroad is approaching its 3-year mark, and the dealership recommended a brake fluid flush during my last oil change. The brakes feel fine, no sponginess or anything, but I know brake fluid can absorb moisture over time.

Is this a critical maintenance item for a vehicle this age, even if the brakes feel good? What are the benefits of flushing the brake fluid, and is it something I could potentially do myself with the right tools, or is it best left to a professional?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:18 AM

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A brake fluid flush is indeed a critical, yet often overlooked, maintenance item for your 2021 Dodge Journey Crossroad, even if your brakes feel fine. Here's why and what's involved:

  1. Hygroscopic Nature: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture reduces the fluid's boiling point. When brakes get hot (e.g., during heavy braking, long downhill stretches), the water in the fluid can boil, creating vapor pockets in the brake lines.
  2. Consequences of Contaminated Fluid:
    • Spongy Pedal: Vapor is compressible, unlike fluid, leading to a soft or 'spongy' brake pedal feel and reduced braking effectiveness.
    • Corrosion: The moisture can also cause internal corrosion in critical brake components like the master cylinder, ABS module, and calipers, leading to expensive repairs.
  3. Recommended Interval: Most manufacturers and brake system experts recommend a brake fluid flush every 2-3 years, regardless of mileage, due to its moisture-absorbing properties. Your 3-year mark is right on schedule.
  4. Benefits of Flushing:
    • Maintains optimal braking performance and pedal feel.
    • Prevents internal corrosion and extends the life of brake system components.
    • Ensures the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and stability control systems function correctly.
  5. DIY Potential: A brake fluid flush can be a DIY job, but it requires specific tools and careful attention to detail:
    • Tools: You'll need fresh DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check your owner's manual for the exact type), a clear hose, a collection bottle, and potentially a pressure bleeder or vacuum bleeder. If doing it manually, you'll need a helper to pump the pedal.
    • Procedure: It involves systematically bleeding each brake caliper (starting from the furthest from the master cylinder) until clean, new fluid comes out. It's crucial to never let the master cylinder reservoir run dry during the process to avoid introducing air into the system.
  6. When to See a Shop: If you're not comfortable with the procedure, don't have the right tools, or if your vehicle has a complex ABS system that requires a scan tool for proper bleeding (some modern systems do), it's best to have a professional perform the flush. They have the equipment to do it efficiently and ensure no air is left in the system, which can be dangerous.
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