Audi RS Brake Fluid Change and Brake Bleeding

In the photo, you can see an Audi RS having its brake fluid changed and its brakes bled. When you're braking from high speed, the temperatures can reach levels that an ordinary car rarely sees. On an RS, brake fluid isn't something you change just because the service schedule says it's time. It's what helps you stop safely. And that's how important it is.

Why does brake fluid deteriorate over time?

Brake fluid gradually absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point. When you brake hard, the temperature rises dramatically, especially in an RS. If the fluid boils, vapour bubbles form inside the system and the brake pedal starts sinking. Imagine braking from high speed, pressing the pedal and feeling it go down towards the floor. That's exactly what I want to protect you from.

When should you change your Audi RS brake fluid?

Normal driving — every two years.
Track driving — before and after the season.
After brake repairs — always.

How do we bleed the brakes?

We connect a pressure bleeder that feeds fresh brake fluid into the system under pressure.
We replace the fluid in the exact sequence specified by the manufacturer.
If necessary, we use diagnostics to activate the ABS/ESP pump and remove any air trapped inside the module.
Finally, we check the brake pedal and take the car for a test drive to make sure the brakes are working properly.

Audi RS on a vehicle lift at Das Auto Service

Why do you need diagnostics when bleeding the brakes?

Inside the ABS/ESP module, there are valves and tiny passages where air can get trapped. If we don't run the correct procedure using diagnostics, that air stays right where it is. And what happens then? You've replaced all the brake fluid, but the pedal still feels soft. That's the problem. Simply draining the old fluid and filling the system with fresh fluid isn't always enough.

If you notice your brake pedal feeling softer than usual or starting to sink, especially after heavy braking, don't drive the car. The brake fluid may have boiled, or there could be air in the system. Please, don't put this off until later.

What about the brake pads and discs?

On an RS, we inspect the brake pads and discs at every service. If your car has ceramic brakes, we follow a special procedure and work extremely carefully. Ceramic brakes are expensive, and one wrong move can damage them. And do you know what really frustrates me? When someone makes a mistake during a repair, you're the one who ends up paying for it. You, the owner, not the workshop.

A tip from Kris Mladenov: If you take your RS on track, change the brake fluid before the season and have it checked after every particularly demanding track session. Don't wait until you feel the brake pedal sinking.

If you can't remember when the brake fluid was last changed on your RS, come and see us at Das Auto Service. We'll replace it properly and check your brake pads and discs while we're at it. We'll tell you exactly what condition your brakes are in, so you can drive with peace of mind.