just another update

[coopdedoo]

Does anyone have any thoughts on Brake Fluid replacement at 50,000 miles on the odometer. I've pumped a LOT of money into the car this year Hybrid battery and ecu and relay failed. $5300 of repairs with only $1900 help from Toyota I don't need to spend$$ needlessly. Dealer recommended replacing the brake fluid and de-carbonizing the throttle. I declined for the moment having just replaced the coolants and transmission fluid in a major service visit. But if it will save me from more major repairs I'll do it.

[windshearalert]

personally my thoughts on changing brake fuid at 50k miles is that it is a waste of time and money. Brake fluids do have the ability to absorb water over time, but in my opinion, if you havent "opened" the system and exposed it to air, the fluid should be fine for quite a long long long time.
Years ago, manufacturers NEVER even said anything about changing brake fluids. Its was basically accomplished when a rear wheel cylinder started leaking or some other repairs were being made, the brakes were bled. Yes, the fluid absorbs moisture....how much? no one really knows. Back in the days before stainless steel brake lines, corrosion was a factor. Now all brake lines are stainless. The corrosion came from the water in the fluid, which settled into the lower areas of the braking system. I think this is a moot point in todays cars. Plus, the brake fluids of today are about 100000 times better in performing their duties than back in the 60's and early 70's.
Now, im not saying is shouldnt be done, but i really feel 50k miles is too short an interval if nothing has ever been done to the system. If a line hasnt been opened, or you have only had to add a drop or two on the resevoir, i would say forget it until 100k miles at a minimum.
Here is another fact.... you should never have to add any brake fluid to your car. IF everything is operational and no leaks, the system will DECREASE in the level as the pads wear down. But once a new set of pads are installed, the level should ride back up to the full mark. The problems begin when you have to add fluid, your car is telling you it has a leak. that is when you need to have repairs made or take it to the dealer.
Dealers have just found another way to soak your wallet for 150 bucks to replace the fluid in the brakes. And i would bet you an additional 150 bucks they do NOT bleed out the lines. They probabyl simply suck out the fluid in the master cylinder and replace with fresh fluid.
Just my opinion, but it reminds me of the old joke about needing to flush out the old air in your tires with fresh air....
Of course, someone is going to quote the owners manual, or say that their brakes are like a ferrarri F1 when they got the brakes bled..... Caveat Emptor