[Tradencookies]

I'm looking at changing the brake fluid on my 2003 Element. Does anyone have recommendations on the type? I've always used Castrol in my other vehicles. Honda brand? Synthetic?

Thanks in advance.

 

[ryland]

If your going to do it yourself might as well use honda. If you go somewhere just use what they use.
Dot 3 is dot 3 IMO. Dont know what the dealer charges but I paid about $50 to have mine changed at a tire shop. If your dealer charges $50 or so just go there if you trust them.

 

[Patman]

Just had mine changed out the other day. Was going to DIY, but in the end, I decided $60 was at least an even trade-off for my time and (most possibly) frustration w/ doing the work in the driveway.

 

[ApriliaGuy]

Does anyone have recommendations on the type? I've always used Castrol in my other vehicles. Honda brand? Synthetic?

I've always liked the Castrol. I've been using the Valvoline SynPower the past few years and like it alot.

I don't think you can really go wrong, especially if you buy a "quality" name brand product. (I'm sure some "cheapies" are just as good too, but for an extra $1.50 every 2-3 years who really cares?!)

 

[mandoo4u]

Found this while trying to answer the same question that you have. I personally am thinking of using the ATE Super Blue. Going to OG Racing tomorrow and going to get my Motive Bleeder and the brake fluid. Hope the info helps.

http://www.swedishbricks.net/700900FAQ/Brake Fluid Comparison.htm

 

[Basset Box]

The reason a fluid change can be cheap is because they may not really do anything aside from suction from the reservoir and fill it back up. How much fluid does that really change? The counter guy at Honda told me that is what they do. If they charge $200 for a cabin filter replacement, you know they aren't changing all the fluid for $60 bucks.

 

[FiAsco]

Don't use DOT 5 or DOT 4+. Use DOT 3 or 4. I don't have anything to add that hasn't been said regarding brand. This is one where I would not worry if the can didn't say "Honda" on the side.

This is a super easy job, IMO. I would be upset to blow $50 or $60 in labor that, as has been pointed out, you don't know was really even done when you take it to a facility. When you bleed yourself you see that clear new stuff come through the bleed valve and you know you've done it right.

I've previously advocated for a vacuum device. I now prefer the two person method with a 2x4 under the pedal for safety.