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In the process of changing front brake lines, I noticed that the fluid(DOT 3) that leaked on the floor had some "brownish" color suspended in it. Is this an indication that my system is contaminated and needs to be flushed and refilled with fresh fluid? And if I do need to flush the system, what solvent should I use?
Yes, it's probably time to refresh your brake fluid. This is not unusual. You should do this occasionally. No solvent, just bleed fresh fluid through the system. Check your master cylinder. If the fluid is cloudy there too, you might want to drain as much as you can out of there and start with a cylinder full of fresh fluid - save yourself some time.
Brake fluid is "hygroscopic". That's right, it somehow finds a way to absorb moisture, even though it's contained within a "sealed system". The brown stuff is most likely rust. The most immediate damage is wreaked on the anodized aluminum wheel cylinder pistons, which trap the moisture within the seal lands, and oxidize, causing seal failure. It's wise to change your car's brake fluid at least every three years.
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