Types of brake fluid
There are several different types of brake fluid, but they are grouped under two headings:
Glycol-based
Silicone based.
The glycol-based brake fluids include DOT3, DOT4, Super DOT4 and DOT5.1. DOT5 is a silicon-based brake fluid. Most cars use DOT4, but always check your handbook for guidance.
In general, the lower the number, the lower the fluid’s boiling point. In normal operation, brake fluid is a liquid and can’t be compressed, so the brake pads and shoes can be properly applied.
However, under hard driving, for example after a few laps around a race track or when descending a long, steep hill for example the highway 2000 or Spur Tree Hill, the high temperatures created by the friction of pad on disc can cause the brake fluid to boil and it starts turning into a gas.
This means it’s compressible and the brake pedal begins to feel spongy - the braking efficiency is reduced and can fail altogether. This reverses once the brake fluid cools.
This is why it’s important to choose the correct brake fluid for the driving conditions. Brake fluid wet boiling points:
DOT3 140C (284F)
DOT4 155C (311F)
Super DOT4 195C (383F);
DOT 5.1 185C (365F).
Glycol-based brake fluid fluid is hygroscopic meaning it has the ability to mix with water and still perform adequately. In fact, it will absorb a tiny amount of water from the moment it has been manufactured and nothing can be done to stop this. A certain amount of Glycol will absorb a certain amount of moisture within a certain time frame. Hence why road car manufacturers recommend changing brake fluid at suggested timed intervals.
Brake fluid also corrodes painted surfaces, so be careful when topping up and changing the fluid.
DOT5 brake fluid is based on silicone and has a wet boiling point of 185C (364F). It doesn’t absorb water or harm painted surfaces but can’t be used in road cars because it doesn’t lubricate ABS pumps.
In addition, DOT5 compresses more than glycol brake fluids, giving a spongier brake pedal.
Never mix brake fluid types (even glycol-based ones) and always replace the lid on the bottle. We recommend buying fresh brake fluid whenever you top up or change it, to avoid possible water contamination.
Did you know that our brake skimming service technician will check your brake fluid during the brake skimming process?
Contact us today for more info.
Superior Parts Ltd
88 Hagley Park Road.
