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What type of brake fluid do you need? Complete guide to proper maintenance
Brake fluid is a critical component of any vehicle's braking system, and choosing the right type is crucial to driving performance and safety. In this comprehensive guide, we'll look at what type of brake fluid you need and how to choose the best brake fluid for your vehicle. You'll learn about the types of brake fluid, their characteristics and how sports brake fluid can improve performance in extreme conditions.
1. Why is it important to choose the right brake fluid?
The brake system relies on brake fluid to transmit pedal pressure to the brakes at the wheels. If the brake fluid is not right for your vehicle or your needs, the system is likely to malfunction, which can increase stopping distances or, in extreme cases, cause failure. Choosing the right brake fluid helps ensure a safe driving experience and optimises the life of the brake system.
2. Types of brake fluid: Which one is best for your vehicle?
There are several types of brake fluid, classified mainly according to their chemical composition and boiling point. Below, we review the most common ones:
●DOT 3: This fluid is the most common in everyday vehicles. It is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the environment) and has a boiling point suitable for most street cars.
●DOT 4: Similar to DOT 3, but with a higher boiling point. This type is preferred in high performance vehicles or those that frequently experience heavy braking.
●DOT 5: Made from silicone, this fluid is non-hygroscopic and has a high boiling point. However, it is not compatible with conventional braking systems using DOT 3 or DOT 4, and is mainly used in classic and racing vehicles.
●DOT 5.1: Combines the advantages of DOT 4 and DOT 5, with a high boiling point and is suitable for modern, high-performance brake systems.
3. How to choose the best brake fluid for your car?
Selecting the best brake fluid involves considering the type of vehicle, how you use it and the climate in which you drive. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:
● Regular city use: For most everyday city vehicles, DOT 3 or DOT 4 is usually sufficient.
● Sport or intense driving: In cases of high-speed or loaded driving, DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 may be more suitable, as they have a higher boiling point.
● Extreme climates:In high temperature environments, consider a fluid with a high boiling point, such as DOT 5 or DOT 5.1.
4. Differences between brake fluids: DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5 and DOT 5.1
Each type of brake fluid has specific characteristics. In the following, we take a closer look at each one:
DOT 3; DOT 3 brake fluid is the most common brake fluid used in regular vehicles. It is suitable for normal conditions and has a boiling point of around 205°C dry.Its major disadvantage is that it absorbs moisture quickly, which can reduce its effectiveness if not changed regularly.
DOT 4; DOT 4 is ideal for medium performance vehicles and is more heat resistant than DOT 3, with a boiling point of around 230°C dry. If you drive in mountainous or hilly areas, DOT 4 can be an excellent choice.
DOT 5; DOT 5 is a brake fluid made from silicone. It does not absorb moisture and has a high boiling point, but is not compatible with systems using DOT 3 or DOT 4. It is most commonly used in classic and military vehicles.
DOT 5.1; DOT 5.1 combines the characteristics of DOT 4 and DOT 5 fluids, offering a high boiling point and good moisture resistance, but is compatible with systems using DOT 3 and DOT 4.
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5. What is sports brake fluid and when to use it?
Sport brake fluid is a specific option designed for high performance vehicles that require a powerful braking system in extreme conditions, such as competition or racing. This type of fluid has a very high boiling point and a composition that allows it to withstand intense temperatures without losing effectiveness.
Advantages of sports brake fluid:
● High temperature resistance: it is ideal for racing or extreme driving conditions.
● Higher wet and dry boiling point: This means that the fluid is less likely to evaporate or degrade under hot conditions.
When is it advisable to use a sports brake fluid?
This type of fluid is only recommended if you have a racing vehicle or participate in motorsport. If you use your vehicle in town or for normal driving, it is better to opt for a standard brake fluid such as DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
6. When and how to change the right brake fluid?
Brake fluid should be changed regularly as it degrades over time. While the interval varies by manufacturer, it is recommended to change it every 2 years or 40,000 kilometres. Keeping the right brake fluid in good condition prolongs the life of the brake system and ensures efficient braking.
Steps to change the brake fluid:
1. Check the fluid level in the brake system reservoir.
2. Drain the old fluid by opening the brake bleeders.
3. Add new fluid to the reservoir, making sure to use the correct type.
4. Bleed the system to remove any air bubbles that may affect performance.
7. Preventive maintenance - keys to choosing the best brake fluid
Preventive maintenance is essential to ensure the quality of brake fluid.Some recommendations include:
● Choose a high quality fluid: Investing in a better brake fluid can be the difference between effective braking and potential failure.
● Avoid mixing fluids of different types: Each type has specific properties, and mixing them can reduce the effectiveness of the system.
8. Conclusion: What is the best brake fluid for your vehicle?
The choice of brake fluid should be based on the type of vehicle, how you use it and your driving conditions. For everyday use, DOT 3 and DOT 4 are usually sufficient, while for high-performance vehicles or sporty driving, a sports brake fluid such as DOT 5.1 is the most suitable choice.
In short, the right brake fluid is essential for the safety and performance of the braking system. Choosing the best brake fluid and performing consistent preventive maintenance is the key to safe and optimal driving in all conditions.
At SDT Brakes, we understand the importance of having a safe and efficient braking system for every type of driving. That's why we offer a wide range of high quality products, from high performance brakes to parts and components for the maintenance of your braking system. By choosing the right brake fluid and keeping your system in top condition, you can ensure superior performance with every brake application. Find out more about our products and how to improve the safety of your vehicle by visiting sdtbrakes.com, where you'll find everything you need to optimise your braking system.