WHY IS BRAKE FLUID IMPORTANT FOR
CARS
Introduction
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used in brake
systems to aid in the movement of the brake pedal to
actuate the brake pads at the wheels thus stopping your
vehicle. Brake fluid is also a lubricant and anti-corrosion
fluid that helps to make sure that your vehicle's brake
system works optimally.
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What does brake fluid do?
Playing a crucial role in the braking process, brake fluid helps transfer the
movement and force created when you press down on the brake pedal.
Extreme heat is generated when braking. This high heat can cause moisture to
condense in the brake hydraulic system.
The brake fluid absorbs this moisture and prevents it from boiling and
causing brake failure. In addition, the brake fluid serves as a lubricant for
all movable parts and prevents corrosion. It must remain fluid in all
temperatures.
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Brake fluid helps transfer the movement and force created when
you press down on the brake pedal.
Adding brake fluid is usually not part of routine vehicle maintenance. Low brake fluid
typically means that your brake pads are worn and will soon need to be changed. If
you notice a sudden drop in the brake fluid level, it could indicate a problem with
your brake system or that you simply need to change your brakes.
Have a mechanic check your brakes.
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DIFFERENT KINDS OF BRAKE FLUIDS
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THERE ARE 4 TYPES OF FLUIDS
DOT 3
DOT 4
DOT 5
DOT 5.1
*DOT 3 and DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 are glycol-based fluids. DOT 5 is
silicone-based. The main difference is that DOT 3 and DOT 4 and
DOT 5.1 absorb water, while DOT 5 doesn't.
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What does DOT stand for?
The DOT types are numbered (i.e DOT 3, DOT 4 and so forth). Basically, these
differ based on the primary substance found in them, boiling point temperature and
color. For those who are driving passenger cars, the glycol-based DOT 3 or DOT 4
brake fluids are advisable. Both DOT 3 and DOT 4 are clear (or slightly amber-
colored). DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3.
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DOT 3
Product Description. Mobil Brake Fluid DOT 3 is a high
performance hydraulic brake fluid for use in automotive disc,
drum and anti-skid brake systems and clutch systems.
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DOT 4
DOT5 silicone-based fluid that was developed for use where moisture or
water was almost certain to be a factor in the braking system, such as
military applications. While DOT5 has a higher boiling point (500F
dry/356F wet) than DOT3 or DOT4, DOT5 exhibits more compressibility
than glycol ether brake fluid
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BRAKE
FLUID MUST
BE THE RIGHT
VISCOSITY
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Avoid driving around with
contaminated brake fluid by visiting
DOES BRAKE FLUID your local car care experts for a
GO BAD OR NEED TO BE free brake inspection, including
brake fluid testing! Depending on
CHANGED? their findings, our certified
technicians may recommend a
brake fluid exchange, which
There are a few reasons why involves removing and replacing the
your brake fluid loses effectiveness brake fluid in your hydraulic braking
over time. The first is that brake
fluid is hygroscopic — a fancy word system. Always consult your
that means it readily absorbs owner’s manual for a more exact
moisture from the air.
recommendation on brake fluid
services.
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SIGNS OF LOW BRAKE FLUID
SOFT PEDAL
If your brake pedal is “softer” than usual, or sinks toward the floor
without much resistance, you may be low on brake fluid. When
there is less brake fluid to compress, the pedal becomes “squishy”
and requires more force from your foot to properly pressurize. This
means your brakes are not operating effectively and should be
serviced as soon as possible.
OILY PUDDLE UNDER THE CAR
If you notice a puddle of liquid forming beneath your car that is slightly
oily to the touch, your brake system may be leaking. There are several
places brake fluid can leak from, including rubber hoses, around the
calipers, and from the master cylinder. Brake fluid leaks should be fixed
promptly to ensure your safety.
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Is brake fluid affected by temperature
When it comes to battling cold
temperatures, brake fluid is
tough. ... Water can then seep
into damaged brake lines,
which is a big problem since
water freezes at 32°F, a much
higher temperature than the
freezing point of brake fluid
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Top Brake Fluid
Recommendations
1. Castrol 12614 DOT 4 Synthetic
Brake Fluid
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2. ATE 706202 Original TYP 200
DOT 4 Brake
Fluid
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3.Wilwood 290-6209
EXP 600 Plus Brake Fluid
4. Mag1 120
Premium DOT 3
Brake Fluid
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Conclusion
Now that you know everything you need to know about brake fluid types
and how to choose the right brake fluid for your vehicle, you can
confidently replace or refill your brake fluid in no time. As long as you use
all of the information in this article, you’ll be able to sustain the
performance of your vehicle’s brake system without any issues. There are
so many options to choose from on the market so don’t just limit yourself
to our recommendations.
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