Clutch Fluid Change Interval?

[bryankwalton]

My Insight is due to have its brake fluid replaced here in the next week. The spec fluid is Honda DOT 3 brake fluid. I've noticed that the spec for the clutch fluid is the same. However, I don't see anywhere that the clutch fluid is to be replaced at any regular interval. Is there any specified interval for this? Should I replace the clutch fluid at the same time? The car is approaching 45,000 miles.

Thanks,
Bryan

[Willie Williford]

No, The clutch fluid does not pick up "heat" as the brake fluid does.
If you never add fluid to the clutch master cylinder, it can be used as a gauge to how the clutch is wearing. When the level gets to the "minimun" level, the clutch may be getting close to be needed replaceing.
The choice is yours.
I change the coolant and brake fluid every 100,000 miles. The clutch fluid is always monitored

Willie

[bryankwalton]

Thanks for the reply. I'll leave it alone then.

-Bryan

[Kevin Dougherty]

The brake fluid used in the clutch reservoir is hydroscopic. In the long term it will cause rust on any of the ferrous part that it contacts.
The cost and criticality of the ABS is the reason why Honda recommends changing the brake fluid on a schedule. I change my clutch at the same time...its relatively easy and it can't hurt.

[TRI]

Originally Posted by Kevin Dougherty

The brake fluid used in the clutch reservoir is hydroscopic. In the long term it will cause rust on any of the ferrous part that it contacts.
The cost and criticality of the ABS is the reason why Honda recommends changing the brake fluid on a schedule.

I change brake and clutch fluid every two years, well have to because we have big mountains and the last thing you want is boiling fluid in the brake lines. It's wise to change the clutch fluid at the same time, not because of the danger of boiling but more to avoid unnecessary repairs of the hydraulic clutch system.