Does it matter what brake fluid I put in my car?
Yes, it does matter what type of brake fluid you use in your car. Using the wrong brake fluid can potentially damage your vehicle's brake system and compromise its safety. The type of brake fluid recommended by your car's manufacturer is specifically designed to work with the materials and components in your braking system.
Understanding Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is a critical component of your car's braking system. It is responsible for transmitting the force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers, causing the brake pads to press against the rotors and slow or stop the vehicle. Brake fluid must be able to withstand high temperatures and pressures, as well as resist corrosion and contamination.
There are several different types of brake fluid, each with its own chemical composition and properties. The most common types are:
- DOT 3 - A glycol-based fluid that is suitable for most passenger vehicles.
- DOT 4 - A more advanced glycol-based fluid with a higher boiling point, suitable for more demanding braking systems.
- DOT 5 - A silicone-based fluid that is not compatible with glycol-based fluids.
- DOT 5.1 - An improved silicone-based fluid with a higher boiling point.
It's important to use the specific type of brake fluid recommended by your car's manufacturer, as using the wrong type can cause swelling, softening, or even deterioration of the rubber seals and hoses in your braking system.
Consequences of Using the Wrong Brake Fluid
Using the wrong brake fluid can have several negative consequences for your vehicle:
- Reduced Braking Performance - Incompatible brake fluids may not provide the same level of hydraulic pressure and braking force, leading to longer stopping distances and reduced braking effectiveness.
- Damage to Brake System Components - Incompatible fluids can cause swelling, softening, or even deterioration of the rubber seals and hoses in your braking system, leading to leaks and potential brake failure.
- Corrosion and Contamination - Certain brake fluids may be more susceptible to absorbing moisture, which can lead to corrosion of metal components and contamination of the fluid, reducing its effectiveness.
- Voided Warranty - Using the wrong brake fluid may void the warranty on your vehicle's braking system, leaving you responsible for any resulting damage or repairs.
To ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle's braking system, it's crucial to use the brake fluid recommended by your car's manufacturer. Consult your owner's manual or speak with a qualified mechanic to determine the appropriate brake fluid for your specific make and model.
Is it OK to add new brake fluid to old brake fluid?
Yes, you can. You can add brake fluid without removing the old fluid from your reservoir. If your brake system is not exposed to air, then it's okay. Bleeding is unavoidable only when the brake fluid traps moisture from the air.
Can I mix DOT 4 and DOT 3?
Yes. DOT 3 brake fluid is compatible with DOT 4 brake fluid. However, DOT 4 offers a higher boiling point.
What happens if you use different brake fluid?
Using the wrong fluid CAN result in rapid deterioration of seals ultimately resulting in brake system failure.
Can I put any type of brake fluid in my car?
in the case of brake fluid most modern cars use either dot4, dot5 or dot5. 1 and they are generally interchangeable, though I would advise against using anything other than the manufacturer recommended fluid.
Should I use DOT 3 or 4 brake fluid?
DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids are interchangeable for the most part. DOT 4 has a slightly higher boiling point. 230C for the DOT 4 vs 205C for the DOT 3. Unless you have a high performance car and like to overwork the brakes, you will likely not have a need for the higher boiling point DOT 4.
What happens if you put the wrong type of brake fluid in your car?
Brake systems use hydraulic fluid that's specially formulated for the purpose. Substituting transmission or power-steering fluid, which are similar to each other, can affect the seals, damage the system, and possibly cause brake failure.
