adding brake fluid and power steering fluid

[ebc1680]

I have a 1999 toyota corolla with 102K miles and I see my brake fluid and power steering fluids have reached the -min- level. Should I just buy extra fluids and just top off the canisters or I need to flush each and every tire in case of brake fluid and also flush the power steering.

I had got my brakes changed at 70K miles and dont think they are worn out (else the dealer would have highlighted each time I take in for maintenance). The fluids dont seem dirty however, am not sure if you can do mix-and-match with these fluids or you need entire new fluid.

[pdq]

The brake fluid level naturally lowers as the pads get worn down (less pad material means the calipers are pushed out, which draws down the fluid level).

It's no problem to top off the brake fluid with new fluid.

As for your power steering, I'd suggest pulling out the cap and dripping some of the fluid onto your hand. If it's dark and thick, you may want to flush the fluid. The correct way to do that is to remove the bolt holding the reservoir onto the frame, pull the two hoses off, and clean the reservoir out with something like brake cleaner. The easier but less effective method is to use a syringe and suck the existing fluid out of the reservoir and fill it back up. You need to do this and then turn the car on and turn the tires left/right a few times to cycle the new fluid through the hoses. It will take several drain and refills to get the fluid clean again.

[Zembonez]

At 102K you should consider flushing and filling both with new fluid. Really good for the long life of the car.

[hardtopte72]

I would first recheck the condition of the front and rear brakes. Even with age it is not common or good for brake fluid to be at the MIN level. You may have worn brakes or a leak somewhere like the wheel cylinders.

It is really not recommended to top off brake fluid as when the pads are replaced and the caliper is compressed that fluid will pour out of the reservoir and spill all over the place.

Power steering is ok to top off but if brake is at the MIN I would almost guarantee you need a thorough brake check.