Brake Fluid Question

[mixongw]

I went to top off the fluid in the front and rear today so I just grabbed a can and filled them up. After doing so, I realized that the can said DOT3 and the cap on the bike said to use DOT4. What is the difference? Did I just screw up really bad?

[BigMattyD]

I believe DOT3 and DOT4 brake fluids are ok to mix. The DOT 4 has a higher boiling point, but both are glycol-based fluids.

The real problem is mixing DOT 5 or silicone based fluids with DOT 3 or 4.

If you really feel like it, you could go get some DOT 4 and flush the brake systems with it.


Matt

[focus frenzy]

in fact it is a very good practice to flush the brakes once a year.
DOT 3 and 4 draws moisture out of the air and this causes mushy brakes and rust and corrosion that ruins the brakes.

[mixongw]

The fluid was looking a little brown. Kinda like tea. I extracted as much as I could and refilled the cups. I'll bleed the lines and replace the fluid later. Thanks for the replies.

[Poot]

that colour is a good indication that your fluid needs changing.


should help your brakes performance a bit.