Necessary work?

Last time I took my truck in for service (at 40k miles) they recommended a power steering fluid exchange and a brake system flush based on mileage.

I have an appointment later today for another oil change (now at 45k miles). Should I have them do the two recommendations or not necessary?

 

Being 5 years old, you are due for new brake fluid. Very easy to do yourself if you have a driveway and a 10mm wrench. Power steering fluid is trans fluid so it isn't hygroscopic...no need to spend the money yet IMO.

 

Brake fluid flush is probably a good idea.

 

While not a necessity, it's isn't too early for a reasonably priced brake fluid flush.
It is, however, a little early to be worrying about PS fluid.

 

Reasonably priced being the operative phrase.

 

What some of these dealers get for work they may or may not even perform, is asinine.

 

They quoted $199.95. That’s before labor I’m assuming.

 

It's around $20 bucks for the fluid to do both the brakes and PS combined.
Might want to find out what they're actually charging..

If they're getting $200 bucks for the fluid alone, that's a problem.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-maintenance-maps-get-300k-miles.789809/

 

time to find a reputable independent mechanic and reduce your costs.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/3rd-gen-maintenance-intervals-simplified.766505/

 

Is there any reason to replace brake fluid that hasn’t tested to be bad?

 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/hpi7Ju192gk

 

Just do both. The truck is worth it

 

Back in my youth, nobody changed out brake fluid! The fluid in the reservoir would be black as tar and nobody gave flying shit.

 

And the cars still stopped. lol
Back in the day when you really would have gotten a funny look if you asked your buddy if he'd changed out his power steering fluid recently.

Radiator leak? Eggs and pepper..
Power steering fluid leak: Add brake fluid..

 

My Toyota dealer also recommended brake fluid change and wheel alignment at my last service visit for an oil change.

I declined both then I sought advice from my older brother who drives a FJ Cruiser. I asked when was the last time he changed the brake fluid on his FJ, he replied never since he bought it in 2012. He said the dealer is just trying to get money out of you. Yes, eventually, the brake fluid has to be replaced but it is way too early in your case.

As for power steering fluid, check the fluid level on the power steering pump. If it looks fresh, you are good! If it's verk dark with floating debris, then yes, time to drain and fill. As others have stated, you can do it yourself and save $$.

Just remember that the dealer service advisor is also a salesman. The more you spend, the higher his/her paycheck!

 

Most things should not be replaced unless they fail an inspection. Engine oil is an exception, because there isn’t a practical way to inspect it yourself. I do not think brake fluid is an exception, because testers are like $20 or less.

 

My Tacoma is 18 years old and has 258,000 miles. I still have the original brake and steering fluid. As well as the original rotors. I'll be due for new brakes sometime in the next year. I'll need new rotors next time for sure. Probably be a good time to get new brake fluid then.

Don't ever take your truck back to that place.

 

This place is nothing if not predictable..

A service writer recommends brake fluid and p/s service and you guys act like he's tryna take groceries right out of your fridge lol

"Did you know he gets paid more if he (gasp!) sells more services?"

Wuuuuuuut!!!!!!!

When you panic stop on the freeway the brake fluid boils down at the calipers. Microscopic air bubbles show up over time resulting in a softer pedal. Flushing is not a waste of money

Everytime somebody asks a maintenance related question the same half dozen guys are off to the races bragging about how little they've spent on their truck for the last 60 years