What kind of brake fluid for Ford Transit?

Use DOT 4 brake fluid. For most Ford Transit models, a glycol-based DOT 4 that meets ISO 4925 and SAE J1703/J1704 is the standard choice. Silicone-based DOT 5 is not recommended for these systems. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or with a Ford dealer for your year and market.

Recommended brake fluid types for Ford Transit

The following options cover what most Ford Transits require, along with notes on compatibility.

• DOT 4 brake fluid, glycol-based, meeting ISO 4925 and SAE J1703/J1704. This is the default recommendation for modern Transits and should be fresh and uncontaminated.


• DOT 4+ or DOT 5.1 brake fluids offer higher boiling points and broader temperature tolerance. They are glycol-based and compatible with systems designed for DOT 4, provided the entire system is flushed and filled correctly.


• DOT 5 silicone-based brake fluid is generally not recommended for Ford Transits with ABS/ESP or modern brake systems. Do not mix DOT 5 with glycol-based fluids.

In practice, Ford Transits typically specify DOT 4; always verify the exact requirement in the owner’s manual or Ford service information for your year and market.

Key compatibility notes

Stick to glycol-based fluids (DOT 3/4/5.1 family). DOT 5 silicone fluid is not compatible with most ABS/ESP systems and can complicate maintenance. If you are unsure about the proper specification, consult the service manual or your local Ford dealer before replacing the fluid.

Understanding the specification helps prevent seal damage, moisture-related braking fade, and costly repairs in the ABS/Brake ECU system.

How to verify the correct brake fluid for your vehicle

Before you buy or replace brake fluid, confirm the exact specification for your van to avoid compatibility issues.

1. Check the vehicle’s owner’s manual or the brake fluid specification listed on the engine bay service label.


2. Consult Ford’s official service information portals or contact a Ford dealer with your VIN to confirm the precise requirement for your model year and market.


3. Choose a reputable brand and ensure the product is DOT 4 (or DOT 4+/5.1 if specified) and that it meets ISO 4925 and SAE J1703/J1704 standards.


4. Avoid mixing different brake fluids; if you are unsure what was previously used, have the system flushed and filled with the correct DOT specification.

After confirming the correct specification, proceed to replacement following proper safety steps and bleeding procedures.

Brake fluid replacement tips for Ford Transit

When replacing brake fluid, follow these practical steps to ensure proper system function and longevity.

1. Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and block wheels if necessary; wear eye protection and gloves.


2. Open the hood, locate the master cylinder reservoir, and clean the cap area to avoid contamination; inspect the fluid color and level.


3. Fill with the correct DOT 4 (or DOT 4+/5.1) glycol-based fluid; avoid DOT 5 silicone or oils.


4. Bleed the brakes from the furthest wheel to the closest (usually rear passenger side, rear driver side, front passenger, front driver) using the two-person method or a proper pressure bleeder.


5. Dispose of old fluid safely according to local regulations; never reuse old fluid.


6. Test the brake pedal feel after bleeding and ensure there is no air in the lines; perform a gentle road test in a safe area.

Regularly check the brake fluid level and replace according to the Ford maintenance schedule or every 2–3 years, depending on driving conditions, to minimize moisture buildup and brake fade.

Summary

Bottom line: For Ford Transit, use glycol-based DOT 4 brake fluid (DOT 4, with DOT 4+ or DOT 5.1 as alternatives if specified by your manual). Do not use silicone-based DOT 5 in these systems, and avoid mixing different fluids. Always confirm the exact specification with the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer, and follow proper bleeding procedures when replacing fluid to maintain braking performance.

Does Ford use DOT 3 brake fluid?

Ford Genuine Ford Fluid PM-1-C High Performance DOT-3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid - 12 oz.

What kind of brake fluid does a Ford Transit take?

Pentosin – DOT 4 Brake Fluid: Safety Against Vapor Lock, Provides Superior Corrosion Resistance, 5 Liter (Part No. 1224204)

Do I want DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?

You should use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid based on your vehicle's manufacturer specifications, which can be found in your owner's manual. If your car requires DOT 3, you can upgrade to DOT 4 for its higher boiling point, which is beneficial for high-temperature braking or frequent use, but do not use DOT 3 if your car calls for DOT 4. 
When to use DOT 3

• Daily driving: Most standard cars and trucks use DOT 3 for moderate braking conditions. 
• If specified: Always use DOT 3 if it is the fluid specified by your vehicle's manufacturer. 

When to use DOT 4

• For higher performance: DOT 4 has higher boiling points, making it better for high-performance vehicles or situations where brakes are used frequently, like in hilly terrain or towing. 
• If specified: Some modern vehicles, especially those with ABS systems, may specifically require DOT 4. 
• Upgrading from DOT 3: If your car currently uses DOT 3, you can upgrade to DOT 4 for improved performance and a higher safety margin. The two are compatible and can be mixed, though it's generally recommended to use the higher-spec fluid if you have the option. 

Key differences

• Boiling points: DOT 4 has higher dry and wet boiling points than DOT 3, meaning it can withstand higher temperatures before it begins to boil and lose effectiveness. 
• Moisture absorption: Both fluids are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture over time, which lowers their boiling point. Because DOT 4 has a higher starting boiling point, it has more of a buffer before becoming a safety risk. 

Important considerations

• Check your manual: Always refer to your car's owner's manual for the correct brake fluid specification to ensure compatibility and prevent system damage. 
• Do not use lower-spec fluid: Never use a lower-spec fluid (like DOT 3) in a vehicle that requires a higher-spec fluid (like DOT 4). 
• Do not mix DOT 3 and DOT 5: While DOT 3 and DOT 4 are compatible, DOT 5 is silicone-based and should not be mixed with either glycol-based DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluids. 

Is it okay to mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?

Yes, you can mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid, as they are chemically compatible, but you should never mix them with DOT 5. Mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 is acceptable because both are glycol-based. Adding DOT 4 to DOT 3 will lower its boiling point, while adding DOT 3 to DOT 4 will lower its boiling point. 
This video explains the differences between DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid and whether they can be mixed: 1mHVAC Mechanic YouTube · Dec 28, 2021
Compatibility and mixing

• DOT 3 and DOT 4: These are compatible and can be mixed without causing harm to the braking system. 
• DOT 3, 4, and 5.1: These are all compatible with each other and can be mixed. 
• DOT 5: This is silicone-based and is not compatible with DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1. Mixing them will cause the system to fail. 

What to consider when mixing

• Boiling point: DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3. Mixing them will lower the overall boiling point of the fluid in your system. 
• Performance: If your car requires DOT 4 and you mix it with DOT 3, you will reduce the braking system's performance. 
• Best practice: It is best to check your vehicle's manual and use the specific DOT fluid recommended for your car. If you need to upgrade to DOT 4, it is best to completely flush the old DOT 3 fluid out first to get the full benefits of the DOT 4 fluid. 

This video explains what happens when you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids: 50sMotor MatchupsYouTube · Jan 2, 2024