Choosing the best brake fluid DOT 4 is essential for optimal braking performance and safety. This article evaluates the top contenders, focusing on key attributes like boiling points, viscosity, and vehicle compatibility, to help you make the right selection for your driving needs.
Key Takeaways
Top DOT 4 brake fluids are selected based on their high boiling points, compatibility with various braking systems, and user satisfaction, with products like Motul RBF 660 and Castrol 15036B 591 offering high-performance characteristics.
DOT 4 brake fluids are more heat-resistant than DOT 3, offering better prevention against vapor lock and requiring regular replacement and maintenance to ensure brake system efficiency.
Choosing the right brake fluid involves consulting the vehicle’s handbook for recommendations, considering the vehicle’s usage and performance requirements, and adhering to proper maintenance routines including regular inspections and replacements.
Top DOT 4 Brake Fluid Choices
Every vehicle deserves a high-quality brake fluid that matches its performance needs. Explore the leading DOT 4 brake fluid options, excelling in aspects like:
Boiling point
Viscosity
Compatibility
User satisfaction
Premium Pick: Motul RBF 660 Racing Brake Fluid
When it comes to high-performance vehicles, the Motul RBF 660 Racing Brake Fluid is a standout choice. Engineered to withstand extreme high-temperature conditions, it boasts a dry boiling point of 328°C/622°F and a wet boiling point of 204°C/399°F, ensuring that your brakes won’t falter even under the most demanding conditions.
Besides withstanding the heat from racing brakes, brake pads align well with advanced braking systems, including anti lock braking systems and brake system built with carbon and ceramic materials, thereby fitting the requirements of high-end race cars and their entire brake system components.
Best Value: Castrol 15036B 591 Brake Fluid Dot 4
Castrol 15036B 591 Brake Fluid Dot 4 is synonymous with value. Known for its high boiling point, it performs exceptionally well even under intense braking conditions. The prevention of high-temperature vapor lock is one of its key features, ensuring reliability in your vehicle’s braking system.
Its compatibility with a broad range of vehicles, including cars and motorcycles, makes it a versatile choice. With its balance of high-temperature performance and cost-effectiveness, Castrol 15036B 591 stands out as the best value cheap brake fluid.
High-Temperature Resistance: Brembo HTC 64T Racing Brake Fluid
Brembo HTC 64T Racing Brake Fluid, built for high-performance racing conditions, exemplifies excellent high-temperature resistance. Formulated to be compatible with all Brembo Racing Brake Systems, it ensures optimal performance under all racing conditions. The brake fluid boasts a high dry boiling point of 335°C / 635°F, which guarantees stable performance even at extreme temperatures, crucial in professional motorsports.
Notably, Brembo HTC 64T features a higher viscosity that contributes to a ‘stiffer’ brake pedal feel, preferred by some drivers for enhanced control.
Versatile Option: Valvoline 601458 Synthetic Brake Fluid
The versatility of Valvoline 601458 Synthetic Brake Fluid sets it apart. Suitable for cars using both DOT 3 and 4 formulas, this brake fluid is perfect for a variety of vehicles, reducing corrosion and improving brake performance.
Budget-Friendly: Quicksilver DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Quicksilver DOT 4 Brake Fluid serves as the perfect selection for those in search of a cost-effective yet efficient option. Designed for use in a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, it’s as versatile as it is cost-effective.
Adhering to DOT 4 standards, Quicksilver offers a high-quality option without the premium price, proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean compromising on quality.
Understanding DOT 4 Brake Fluids
What differentiates DOT 4 brake fluids from the rest? Primarily, it’s their higher boiling points and better heat resistance compared to DOT 3 fluids. With a dry boiling point of 230°C and a wet boiling point of 155°C, DOT 4 fluids are better equipped to resist heat. These boiling points refer to the temperatures at which new, unopened brake fluid will boil (dry boiling point) and after the fluid has absorbed 3.7% water by volume (wet boiling point).
DOT 4 brake fluids, like the synthetic Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid, offer outstanding anti-vapor lock capabilities, preventing sudden loss of brake pressure during intense braking situations. Proper maintenance of brake lines is essential to ensure the effectiveness of these high-performance brake fluids.
How to Choose the Right Brake Fluid
The task of selecting the appropriate brake fluid isn’t as intimidating as it appears. Start by consulting your vehicle’s handbook to determine the specific type of brake fluid recommended. Compatibility is key, so select a brake fluid that meets the relevant standards.
Don’t forget to consider your vehicle’s usage. Regular street cars require a balance between performance and affordability, whereas track vehicles may need fluids designed for high heat resistance and frequent replacement due to demanding conditions.
Proper Brake Fluid Maintenance
Brake fluid maintenance encompasses more than merely refilling it. To prevent issues like a spongy pedal feel or vapor lock, it’s vital to replace the brake fluid regularly, usually after two years of use. Regular inspection of the brake fluid’s color and condition is essential; a yearly brake fluid test is recommended, or more frequently in high humidity areas.
Once you’ve inspected or refilled the brake fluid, ensure to secure the reservoir cap back in place to ward off contamination that might hinder brake performance. Finally, dispose of used brake fluid responsibly to avoid environmental damage.
Comparing DOT 4 with Other Brake Fluids
How does DOT 4 measure up to other brake fluids? It offers higher boiling points compared to conventional DOT 3 fluids, making it suitable for vehicles driven under performance conditions. Some DOT 4 fluids, like Bosch ESI6-32N Brake Fluid, can directly replace DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids, demonstrating their versatility.
However, DOT 5 brake fluid, which is silicone-based and does not absorb water, has different performance characteristics and lower maintenance needs than DOT 4.
How to Change Your Brake Fluid
With the correct tools and knowledge, the process of changing your brake fluid is uncomplicated. Start by preparing your workspace and gathering all the necessary supplies, including a new container of brake fluid, rags, gloves, a funnel, and a socket wrench set.
To change your brake fluid, follow these steps:
Locate the master cylinder.
Clean the reservoir.
Remove the old brake fluid.
Refill with new brake fluid using a funnel up to the required level.
Bleed the brakes to purge any air from the system.
Test the brakes by driving around to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Summary
To wrap up, DOT 4 brake fluids offer superior performance, higher boiling points, and better heat resistance, making them a top choice for many drivers. Whether you’re seeking the premium pick, the best value, or a budget-friendly alternative, there’s a DOT 4 brake fluid to meet your needs. Remember, regular maintenance and proper selection of brake fluid are key to ensuring your vehicle’s optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best brand of DOT 4 brake fluid?
The Motul DOT-4 100 Percent Synthetic Racing Brake Fluid and the Castrol 15036B 591 Brake Fluid Dot 4 are highly recommended for their water penetration protection, high boiling point, and improved performance for drivers and racers.
Does it matter what DOT 4 brake fluid I use?
Yes, any brake fluid meeting the DOT 4 specification will be suitable for use in your vehicle, as long as it’s driven under normal conditions intended by the manufacturer.
Is there a difference between DOT 4 and Super DOT 4?
Yes, there is a difference between DOT 4 and Super DOT 4 brake fluids: Super DOT 4 meets all the requirements of DOT 4 but has better viscosity characteristics. This makes it specifically ISO 4925, Class 6 grade.
What is the significance of the boiling point in brake fluids?
The boiling point of brake fluids is significant because it indicates the temperature at which the fluid will boil. A higher boiling point is crucial for vehicles under performance conditions as it allows the fluid to withstand higher temperatures without boiling.
Can DOT 4 brake fluid be used in a vehicle that requires DOT 3?
Yes, some DOT 4 brake fluids can directly replace DOT 3 in a vehicle. Using Bosch ESI6-32N Brake Fluid is an example of this.