Key points
- Brake fluid plays a vital role in transferring hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers, allowing you to stop your vehicle effectively.
- Wipe the inside of the reservoir and the cap with a clean rag to remove any remaining brake fluid or debris.
- If you don’t have a fluid transfer pump or turkey baster, you can use a syringe to extract the old brake fluid.
Maintaining your Volkswagen Tiguan’s brake system is crucial for ensuring optimal safety and performance. One essential aspect of this maintenance is changing the brake fluid regularly. Brake fluid plays a vital role in transferring hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers, allowing you to stop your vehicle effectively. Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture and debris, reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s recommended to change your brake fluid every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to change brake fluid in your VW Tiguan.
Materials Required
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- New brake fluid (DOT 4 or DOT 5.1)
- 10mm and 13mm wrenches
- Fluid transfer pump or turkey baster
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Safety glasses
Safety Precautions
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from brake fluid splashes.
- Brake fluid is toxic, so avoid contact with your skin and eyes.
- Never reuse old brake fluid.
- Keep the area well-ventilated, as brake fluid fumes can be harmful.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Gather Your Materials and Park the Tiguan
Gather the materials listed above and park the Tiguan on a level surface. Ensure the parking brake is engaged.
2. Locate the Brake Fluid Reservoir
The brake fluid reservoir is typically located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side. It’s usually a clear or translucent plastic container with a black cap.
3. Remove the Reservoir Cap
Use a clean rag to remove the reservoir cap. Be careful not to spill any brake fluid.
4. Extract the Old Brake Fluid
Using a fluid transfer pump or turkey baster, carefully extract the old brake fluid from the reservoir. Dispose of the old fluid properly according to local regulations.
5. Clean the Reservoir and Cap
Wipe the inside of the reservoir and the cap with a clean rag to remove any remaining brake fluid or debris.
6. Fill the Reservoir with New Brake Fluid
Fill the reservoir with new brake fluid until it reaches the “MAX” line. Use the recommended type of brake fluid specified in your Tiguan’s owner’s manual.
7. Bleed the Brakes
Bleeding the brakes helps remove any air bubbles from the system. To do this, follow these steps:
- Start with the brake caliper farthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear right).
- Loosen the bleeder screw on the caliper using a 10mm wrench.
- Have an assistant depress the brake pedal slowly and hold it down.
- While the pedal is depressed, open the bleeder screw slightly to allow air and old fluid to escape.
- Close the bleeder screw once fluid starts flowing without any air bubbles.
- Repeat these steps for the remaining three calipers, moving closer to the master cylinder.
8. Check the Brake Fluid Level
After bleeding the brakes, check the brake fluid level in the reservoir and top it up if necessary.
9. Clean Up and Dispose of Waste
Wipe down any spilled brake fluid and dispose of the old fluid and rags properly.
Tips
- Use a clean funnel to avoid spilling brake fluid when filling the reservoir.
- If you don’t have a fluid transfer pump or turkey baster, you can use a syringe to extract the old brake fluid.
- Bleeding the brakes can be a messy process, so it’s a good idea to wear old clothes or coveralls.
- If you’re not comfortable changing brake fluid yourself, it’s best to have it done by a qualified mechanic.
Wrapping Up
Changing brake fluid in your VW Tiguan is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed in about an hour. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your brake system is operating at its best and that you’re driving safely. Remember to check your brake fluid regularly and change it as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How often should I change the brake fluid in my VW Tiguan?
A: It’s recommended to change the brake fluid every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first.
Q: Can I use any type of brake fluid in my Tiguan?
A: No, you should only use the type of brake fluid specified in your owner’s manual.
Q: What happens if I don’t change my brake fluid regularly?
A: Over time, brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture and debris, reducing its effectiveness. This can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous.
Q: Is it safe to drive my Tiguan with low brake fluid?
A: No, it’s not safe to drive with low brake fluid. This can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous.
Q: Can I bleed the brakes myself?
A: Yes, you can bleed the brakes yourself by following the steps outlined in this guide. However, if you’re not comfortable doing so, it’s best to have it done by a qualified mechanic.