What kind of brake fluid does a 2002 Ford Taurus take?
The 2002 Ford Taurus requires DOT 3 brake fluid. This is the standard brake fluid specification for most passenger vehicles manufactured in the early 2000s.
Brake Fluid Specifications for the 2002 Ford Taurus
The 2002 Ford Taurus is designed to use DOT 3 brake fluid, which is a glycol-based fluid that meets the minimum performance requirements set by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). DOT 3 brake fluid has a boiling point of around 401°F (205°C) and is compatible with the brake system components in the 2002 Taurus.
It's important to use the correct brake fluid type for your vehicle, as using the wrong fluid can damage the brake system. Using a higher-specification fluid like DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 in a 2002 Taurus is generally not necessary and could potentially cause issues.
Changing the Brake Fluid
Ford recommends changing the brake fluid in a 2002 Taurus every 3 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. This helps ensure the brake fluid maintains its performance and does not become contaminated over time.
- When changing the brake fluid, be sure to use a high-quality DOT 3 fluid that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements.
- Avoid mixing different types of brake fluid, as this can also cause problems in the brake system.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when performing a brake fluid flush and replacement.
Maintaining the proper brake fluid type and changing it at the recommended intervals is an important part of keeping the 2002 Ford Taurus's braking system in good working order.
Can I just add brake fluid?
If your brake fluid is at or above the “MIN” line, your brake fluid level is fine and you don't need to add any. If your fluid is below the “MIN” line, carefully pry the reservoir cap off, and then add brake fluid until the level is just under the “MAX” line. Do not overfill.
What happens if I put DOT 4 instead of DOT 3?
DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3. You can use DOT 4 where DOT 3 is called for, but not the reverse. Using DOT 3 in a DOT 4 brake risks boiling the brake fluid.
Does it matter what brake fluid I use?
Although DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids are all glycol-based, the chemical composition of each type of fluid is different, so it will have a different effect on the system. To make sure the system works as it should, the best thing to do is to keep using the brake fluid recommended by the manufacturer.
Is dot 6 brake fluid?
ISO 4925 Class 6 (DOT 6) brake fluid has the LOWEST viscosity and is required in many modern automobiles. Class 6 is glycol-based and backwards compatible to DOT 3, DOT 4 & DOT 5.1. Class 7 Brake Fluid: ISO 4925 Class 7 (DOT 7) brake fluid has the LOWEST viscosity and the HIGHEST boiling Point.
What type of brake fluid does Ford use?
Ford recommends using Motorcraft (Ford) DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid or equivalent meeting WSS-M6C65-A2. Use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause degraded brake performance and not meet the Ford performance standards. Keep brake fluid clean and dry.
Can I mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?
Yes. DOT 3 and DOT 4 are both glycol ether based, and will mix just fine. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point, so depending on the application, it may be necessary to use that instead of DOT 3.
What color is DOT 3 brake fluid vs DOT 4?
Different Brake Fluid Types
DOT 3 Brake fluid: Typically in clear, yellow, blue, and red shades. DOT 4 Brake fluid: Typically in light yellow or crimson red shades. DOT 5 Brake fluid: Typically in purple shades. DOT 5.1 Brake fluid: Typically in clear, yellow, and blue shades.
What happens if I put DOT 3 instead of DOT 4?
They're used in most modern cars and trucks, because they work with ABS brakes. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3. You can use DOT 4 where DOT 3 is called for, but not the reverse. Using DOT 3 in a DOT 4 brake risks boiling the brake fluid.
What cars use DOT 4 brake fluid?
There are several different types of DOT 4 so be certain you use the correct type. DOT 4 is used in some euro and domestic vehicles. DOT 4 Plus is used in Mercedes and Volvo. DOT 4 Low Viscosity is used in some BMW models.
Can I just add brake fluid without flushing?
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.
