Brake fluid service

[davyk31]

My car is nearly 2 years old and according to the service indicator it seems to be wanting a brake fluid change. Is this not rather early at only 20k miles. If not really necessary is there a way to clear this alert or if it should be done how much should I expect to pay for this. It also seems to be wanting some kind of filter next month, I did not take time to look up the manual to see what this is. Again is this necessary and how much. Car is a 2006 325i petrol.

[Soapsuds]

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My car is nearly 2 years old and according to the service indicator it seems to be wanting a brake fluid change. Is this not rather early at only 20k miles. If not really necessary is there a way to clear this alert or if it should be done how much should I expect to pay for this. It also seems to be wanting some kind of filter next month, I did not take time to look up the manual to see what this is. Again is this necessary and how much. Car is a 2006 325i petrol.

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Brake fluid is hydroscopic (sp!!??)which means it soaks up water over time. Nothing really to do with mileage. This occurs exponentially. 2 years is a good preiod to change it.

The effects of moisture means it boils the water under heavy braking and you then get brake fade and a squishy pedal are are generally aided with the stopping power of a tree or the back of someones car.....

Get it changed. You can use an independent specialist, but make sure it is genuine BMW parts and keep the receipt

Filters will need changing regularly too. At 20k, its low, but again the service schedule demands by age. Is it oil or fuel that needs changing? I imagine its just oil - c£25 plus labour (1 hour).

[Ben]

Brake fluid for many manufacturers is every 2 years. IIRC something to do with the fluid taking on water and thus reducing effectiveness.

Personally I'd just get an independent to do it rather that the main dealer unless it has warranty implications.

Cheers

Ben