Brake fluid is a vital component in the hydraulic braking systems of vehicles. It serves several crucial functions, making its use necessary. It is important to know that is not the same as brake cleaner.
What is brake fluid used for?
Here’s why you need to use brake fluid in your vehicles:
Amplifies Force
Brake fluid is a type of automotive specialty product designed to amplify the force applied to the brake pedal. When you press the brake pedal, the fluid transfers this force into hydraulic pressure, which is then transmitted through the brake lines to the braking components (calipers or wheel cylinders). This amplified force allows for effective braking action and helps slow down or stop the vehicle.
Non-Compressible Medium
Brake fluid is a non-compressible substance that is contained within the brake lines. When the brake pedal is pressed, the force created is transmitted through this fluid without significant compression. This characteristic ensures that the force applied by the driver is directly transferred to the braking components, resulting in immediate and responsive braking.
Provides Lubrication
Brake fluid lubricates the internal components of the braking system. It helps reduce friction between moving parts, such as pistons and seals, ensuring smooth operation and preventing premature wear. Adequate lubrication also contributes to the longevity and durability of the braking system.
Prevents Corrosion
Brake fluid is formulated to be corrosion-resistant. It helps protect the brake system’s metal components, such as brake lines, calipers, and master cylinder, from rust and corrosion. This corrosion prevention is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and performance of the braking system over time.
Heat Resistance
Brake fluid is designed to withstand high temperatures generated during braking. It operates under extreme heat conditions without vaporizing or losing its effectiveness. This heat resistance ensures consistent and reliable braking performance, even during demanding situations such as prolonged braking or towing heavy loads.
Why should you change brake fluid?
This product requires regular maintenance and periodic replacement. Over time, it can absorb moisture from the air, which can lower its boiling point and compromise its performance.
Brake fluid flushes or replacements are typically recommended every 30,000 miles or every two years, although specific recommendations may vary depending on the vehicle and manufacturer guidelines.
Most recommended brake fluid
Mag-1 offers two types: Mag-1 DOT 3 and Mag-1 DOT 4. These fluids are formulated to meet or exceed the highest standards of performance and safety, providing reliable braking performance for various disc and drum brake systems.
Mag-1 Brake Fluid DOT 3 is designed to deliver exceptional braking performance for vehicles equipped with DOT 3 brake systems. It is a specially blended formula that meets or exceeds the stringent requirements set by regulatory authorities.
This fluid ensures reliable hydraulic pressure transfer, amplifying the force applied by the driver to initiate effective braking action. With its high-performance characteristics, Mag-1 DOT 3 contributes to improved stopping power, consistent brake pedal feel, and enhanced safety on the road.
On the other hand, Mag-1 Brake Fluid DOT 4 is specifically engineered to cater to vehicles equipped with DOT 4 brake systems. This fluid is formulated to withstand higher temperatures and provides superior performance under more demanding conditions.
It offers increased boiling points and better resistance to brake fade, making it suitable for high-performance vehicles or situations that generate extreme heat during braking. Mag-1 DOT 4 ensures that the brake system remains responsive and reliable even in challenging driving scenarios.
Both Mag-1 DOT 3 and DOT 4 play a crucial role in maintaining the functionality and safety of the braking system. Regularly checking and replacing brake fluid according to manufacturer recommendations is essential to ensure optimal brake performance and vehicle safety. Please refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and consult a professional for specific guidance on using Mag-1 DOT 3 or DOT 4 for your particular vehicle.
If you wish to treat your braking system with Mag-1 Brake Fluid DOT 3 and DOT 4, do not hesitate to contact us.
Sources:
WHAT BRAKE FLUID DOES & WHY IT’S IMPORTANT. https://www.tiresplus.com/blog/brakes/what-brake-fluid-does/. Tires Plus. Accessed December 3, 2023.
BRAKE FLUID – WHAT IT DOES & WHY IT’S IMPORTANT. https://www.sstire.com/tracy/brake-fluid-important/. S&S Tire. Accessed December 3, 2023.
Here’s What You Need To Know About Brake Fluid. https://www.cbac.com/media-center/blog/2021/december/here-s-what-you-need-to-know-about-brake-fluid/. Christian Brothers Automotive. Accessed December 3, 2023.
WHAT IS BRAKE FLUID? https://www.uti.edu/blog/automotive/brake-fluid. Universal Technical Institute. Accessed December 3, 2023.