Brake Fluid

[zimboy]

Hi All,

Long time, but i've been out driving ;)

I have a query, our Rav is due a service in about 3 month, but on doing a fluid check i see the brake fluid is right down below low, i know i pads need changing but there is a bit of milage left before the service and a bit of pads left as well.

the question i have is, popping into the garage to pick up a bottle of .3 but they recommended dot5.1 can i mix these? or is it better to completly bleed the brakes (i know the theory but haven't done it before)

or can i mix both of these? is there a way of telling what the fluid is in there at the moment, it might already have been changed, or do i bite the bullet and just do the serivce early?

thanks in advance.

Model is a 2003 estate 2.0 auto.

[anchorman]

DOT3 and DOT 5.1 are completely compatible.

The fluid should be changed every 2 years and there is no reason why it can't be changed independantly of the service - you could go ahead and do it now. However, if you haven't done it before it might be better to get somebody who has to help you. In any case you really need a helper to pump the brake pedal.

[zimboy]

Great thank you very much :)