What type of brake fluid does a 2012 Dodge Journey take?
The 2012 Dodge Journey uses DOT 3 brake fluid. This article explains the specification, why it matters, and how to verify and maintain your braking system.
Brake fluid types and the Journey's requirement
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that must meet a specific specification. For the 2012 Journey, Dodge’s service information indicates DOT 3 glycol-based fluid as the standard. DOT 4 is higher in boiling point and is used in some vehicles, but the official specification for this model year points to DOT 3. Always verify with your owner’s manual or by checking the reservoir label.
Here are the essential points to understand about the brake fluid requirement for the 2012 Journey.
- The correct fluid type is DOT 3 (glycol-based). This is the standard for the 2012 Journey per Dodge's service information.
- Do not use silicone DOT 5 unless the manual explicitly requires it; DOT 5 is not compatible with most Mopar ABS systems and can cause issues if used in the wrong system.
- If you cannot confirm the specification from the manual, use DOT 3 and avoid mixing with DOT 4 or DOT 5.
- You can check the reservoir cap or the owner’s manual for the exact spec; look for DOT 3 labeling or a stated requirement.
- When replacing brake fluid, ensure the system is flushed and refilled to remove old fluid and moisture that can degrade braking performance.
In practice, the Journey's brake system is designed to operate with glycol-based DOT 3 fluid. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle year and trim, because using the wrong type can degrade braking performance or damage seals.
Maintenance and verification tips
Proper maintenance helps keep braking performance safe and reliable. Here are practical steps and checks to ensure your brake fluid remains correct and effective.
Use these quick verification steps to confirm the correct brake fluid type for your Journey.
Verification steps
- Check the owner’s manual or the brake fluid reservoir cap for the exact DOT specification (look for DOT 3 or a similar label).
- Choose a brake fluid that explicitly meets DOT 3 specifications and is suitable for motor vehicles under FMVSS 116 standards.
- Avoid introducing DOT 4 or DOT 5 into a system that is specified for DOT 3 unless the manual allows it; if you’re unsure, flush and refill with DOT 3.
- If the fluid you have is unclear or contaminated (dark color, moisture, or particulates), plan a full flush and replacement with the correct DOT 3 fluid.
Following these steps helps ensure you use the correct brake fluid and maintain system integrity.
Summary
The 2012 Dodge Journey requires DOT 3 brake fluid (glycol-based). Confirm this specification in the owner’s manual or on the reservoir label, and avoid using DOT 4 or DOT 5 unless the manual explicitly allows it. Regular checks and proper replacement help maintain braking performance and long-term reliability.
