The owner's manual for my 90 Westy syncro says to change the brake fluid
every two years.

I would never take my Vanagon to Midas. I'm sure all (or most) brake systems
work pretty much the same... but what if they need parts?
Also, unless you happen to know the mechanic at Midas... you don't know who
will be working on your Vanagon... perhaps a kid with a few months
experience? There is a third option besides the VW Dealer or Midas... look
for a good independent VW shop... you can start looking at www.vanagon.com
on the Recommended Mechanics list... or just post another question to the
list asking for a recommendation in your area.... ALWAYS TAKE YOUR VANAGON
TO A SHOP THAT WORKS ON A LOT OF THEM.

Good Luck,

Bill

----- Original Message -----
From: "W. Silva" <wsilva@CAPECOD.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, May 20, 2000 6:35 AM
Subject: Brake fluid replacement

> Our '85 Westy has nasty looking brake fluid and I have heard two opinions
> about changing it.
>
> One:  Leave it alone, if you change it you may ruil the seals. because
it's
> been in there so long...
>
> Two:  Change it at least every two years because it attracts moisture
(what
> does this do?)
>
> We have owned the van for about 3 years now and don't know if the PO ever
> changed the fluid.
>
> What risks are we taking by changing or not changing the fluid.  Should I
> have it done at a dealer or do you think Midas can handle it?
>
> Thanks in advance for your sage advice.
>
> Wendy
>
>
> John & Wendy
> Cape Cod, MA
>
> '85 Westfalia "S-Cape"
> '98 Passat "The Do Dah Machine"
>
> CAMPERS ON CAPE COD
>  a LiMBO sponsored event
> SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 1, 2000
>