Recommended service intervals for brake and power steering fluids

[mds4752]

Bought a used 97 SR5 a couple weeks ago; my 1st 4Runner.

I'm attempting to get the maintenance documented and prioritized. I am subscribed to the Toyota Owners website (pretty handy app if you ask me) and it pulled up some work orders from previous owner, but not many.

I've dug through various sources and have a good handle on the recommended intervals for most issues, but I can't find anything on flushing and replacing the brake fluid and power steering fluids.

Anyone have a suggestion?

Thx, and enjoying this site!

 

[fourwd1]

The manual for one of my vehicles suggested every 30K mi (approx 2 yrs).
I do it more like every 3 yrs or so, when I'm doing a brake job.

Most people don't think it's necessary, but the thing about brake fluid is that it's hygroscopic, ie, it absorbs moisture. That not only causes degradation of the fluid, but since brake fluid does not circulate through the system (it goes from the Master Cylinder to 4 dead ends), that moisture builds up and causes the pistons in the calipers to seize up (especially if the vehicle isn't a DD). And you wouldn't believe the crud taht builds up in the bottom of the MC.

 

[fourwd1]

Oh, and i have a Motive power bleeder, which makes the whole thing so much easier.

 

[mds4752]

Thanks fourwd1. I'm anxious to get a baseline for the maintenance and will do some of it DIY.

Overall, she's in pretty good shape and I enjoy driving it.