When should I change brake fluid? Is there a specific interval that should be adhered to, or should one rely on indications from the vehicle’s performance? What are the signs that might suggest fluid degradation or contamination? Could a peculiar sensation when pressing the brake pedal be an indicator of neglected brake fluid? Furthermore, how does the type of driving—such as frequent stop-and-go traffic versus long-distance highway cruising—affect the fluid’s longevity? What role does environmental exposure, like heat and moisture, play in the overall efficacy of brake fluid? Should the composition of the brake fluid itself dictate the replacement schedule, given that not all fluids possess the same characteristics? Would application of best practices in vehicle maintenance ensure optimal braking performance by regularly monitoring this fluid, or could other factors also negate its effectiveness? In this complex interplay of variables, how can a driver ascertain the right time to undertake this crucial maintenance task?