Sometimes, brake fluids do not get the attention they deserve as we neglect their importance. Neglecting the importance of brake fluids would only lead to the low performance of our braking system. Brake fluids can be classified under the ‘wet boiling point’ or the ‘dry boiling point’.
A Step By Step Guide on Selecting the Best Brake Fluid
If you are interested in your vehicle’s maintenance then the extra effort should be put into making use of ideal brake fluid. Making use of good brake fluid would improve the mechanical needs as well as the driving needs of your vehicle.
To help you find a brake fluid that would work for you, here are the 15 best brake fluid just for you. Check them out.
1. ATE 706202 Racing Quality DOT 4 Brake Fluid
A popular marketer of brake fluids is the ATE brand and they are also well known for their production of oil and lubricants. This company isn’t just known for making this product but they are quite popular for making high-quality products.
That is exactly what the ATE brand has done here as it has also produced a reliable and premium brake fluid that would be loved and appreciated by car owners.
This brake fluid has a DOT4 classification and what this implies is this brake fluid has a high boiling point. Furthermore, this product has a rare feature that isn’t seen in most brake fluids and that is having an amazing water locking ability.
What having a water locking ability means is this brake fluid fights backwater from entering into the braking system through porous holes so as not to dilute the fluid.
It makes sure the braking system remains efficient and active for a longer period of time and this also makes this fluid the best option for an oil change for about three years interval and that is such an outstanding performance because you do not get to see that every day. It also comes at a very affordable price despite being a high-quality product.
Key Features:
- Has great water locking ability
- Features a lasting lifespan
- Also has a non-foaming fluid which allows easy draining and filling of the system
2. Motul std color MTL100949 8068HL RBF
If you enjoy driving really fast like Vin Diesel in the Fast and Furious movie then you would surely need this brake fluid as it proves to be the best option if you like to add up an additional thirty feet power while driving into the parking lot.
What we are saying is if you drive a sports car, a car with high performance or you drive by routes that would require you to brake frequently then this premium brake fluid is the brake fluid you need to settle for.
Just like the first product we discussed in this review, the MOTUL DO4 RBF 600 brake fluid also has a DOT4 classification and this means that this brake fluid has a high boiling point.
What having a high boiling point means is this fluid has the right capacity to be able to match its racing brake fluid tag and you necessarily don’t have to spend much in purchasing this product as it can be gotten at a very cheap price.
Key Features:
- This brake fluid has an impressive thermal resistance
- Its a non-silicone based type of brake fluid
- Also features a high boiling point
3. Prestone 32 Ounce AS401 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid
This is the first DOT3 brake fluid we would talk about in this review as the other products we have talked about were both DOT4 products. Even though this is a brake fluid with a DOT3 composition, it would still be of interest for you to note that this brake fluid comes with a lot of essential features that make it be recognized as a high-performance liquid. What makes this brake fluid unique is its anti-vapor ability.
Having anti-vapor ability means the destruction of the gas vapor build up in your vehicle’s braking system in high-temperature situations and being a DOT3 classification brake fluid means this brake fluid has a lower boiling point compared to DOT4 brake fluid.
Nonetheless, this brake fluid also features a boiling point that is higher than the minimum points set by the government.
This brake fluid has a mid-range price tag and would certainly not match the performance of a DOT4 brake fluid but generally speaking, it has some really cool features and lots of benefits.
Key Features:
- Has low vapor
- Comes at a low price but has a large volume
- Has a very good boiling point
4. Castrol 12509 Dot 4 Brake Fluid
If you want a high performance and decent fluid but if you are shopping on a budget then the Castrol DOT4 brake fluid is surely one brake fluid product you shouldn’t miss out on. This brake fluid has a high boiling point and that is why it is being classified as DOT4 brake fluid and of course, this is one brake fluid that you need to spend heavily to purchase.
You can spend a decent amount to get this product and still get other items that you would need.
Even though this brake fluid comes at a really low price, the quantity you are getting is relative because this product comes in a very small bottle and that is one downside most customers complain about after purchasing this brake fluid.
It is very easy to make use of as it should be applied to a braking system when you notice a spongy feeling on your braking system.
It can also be applied after flushing your braking system partially.
Key Features:
- Comes at a very low price
- This is an impressive brake fluid as it would mix with other fluids
- Also features an impressive boiling point
5. Pentosin 1204116 Super Dot 4 Brake Fluid
When speaking about high-quality brake fluid, the PENTOSIN super DOT4 brake fluid is one product that certainly comes to mind and this isn’t just any type of brake fluid but one that is carefully designed and formulated to be used in a vehicle’s ABS system.
Being used in the ABS system has its advantages and one such advantage includes being able to resist corrosion.
That isn’t the only special power that this brake fluid has but it also has what it takes to fight back retaining water and what makes this feature an important feature as we talked about in one of the products we mentioned is that it causes the brake fluid to last longer and there would be no need for the brake fluid to be replaced or drained.
Having a higher boiling point is what makes this brake oil a DOT4 classification fluid. This makes the PENTOSIN Super DOT4 brake fluid a very reliable option in several high-performance formats.
Key Features:
- Very resistant to corrosion
- Also repels retaining water
- Works well in your vehicles ABS systems
6. MAG1 120 Premium DOT 3 Brake Fluid
The Mag1 company is often seen as manufacturers of lubricants and this Mag1 premium DOT3 brake fluid even though it is being considered as basic has proved to be a very decent product if you decide to settle for a product that would bring all the whistles and bells of premium and high-quality products.
However, this brake fluid has a DOT3 classification meaning it has lesser boiling points compared to other fluids mentioned in this list.
Buyers would be able to get this brake fluid at a very affordable amount so if you want to go for a product that you don’t need to spend massively on but guarantees getting its job done then you should start thinking of the Mag1 DOT3 brake fluid.
If the manufacturers of this product indicate that DOT4 must be used then you do not need to use this product but trust this fluid to do great in vehicles with low performance.
Key Features:
- Has a bargain price
- This brake fluid has a DOT3 classification
7. Prestone AS400 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid\
If you specifically want a brake fluid with the DOT3 classification for your vehicle then I say you should consider taking a closer look at the Prestone AS400 DOT3 brake fluid and this is actually the second Prestone product to find its way to this well-detailed guide.
What this tells you is the Prestone brand can be trusted and relied upon to manufacture high-quality products that would meet customer satisfaction.
For most budget commuter cars, the DOT3 classification brake fluids are most of the times the required brake fluid and not based on the performance alternative vehicle and this is a brake fluid that has lots of amazing features like having being used precisely in your vehicle’s drum braking, disc and ABS systems. Generally speaking, the Prestone DOT3 brake fluid would offer users excellent value for their money.
Being manufactured by a highly reputable brand means you are actually settling for high quality and premium product so you can believe that you are settling for a product which would definitely help your vehicle perform constantly for years.
Key Features:
- Its formula comprises of mixed synthetic polyglycols ethers
- Designed specifically for use in average cars
- Has a boiling point of 460 degrees Fahrenheit
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8. Niteo Motor Medic M4011/12 DOT 5 Brake Fluid
This is a product that is quite different entirely from all other products that we have talked about so far in this review. The reason for this is because so far, we have been talking about brake fluids with either a DOT4 classification or brake fluids with the DOT3 classification but right now we want to talk about a brake fluid with a DOT5 classification which is one of the highest classifications when referring to brake fluids.
This brake fluid from NITEO is quite popular on the market and what makes people consider this product to be an outstanding product is the fact that it would withstand braking performance for a very long time be it under low or high operating temperatures.
What’s more, is you can trust this brake fluid to act gentle and not damage your vehicle’s painting as we all know how messy it is to replace brake fluid.
It is, however, an affordable DOT5 type of brake fluid compared to others on the market and you are definitely settling for a brake fluid that would guarantee high-quality performance at all times or for as long as you use.
Key Features:
- Not the type to absorb moisture
- Has a DOT5 classification
- Features a silicone formula
- Has a boiling point of about 500 degrees Fahrenheit
9. Lucas Oil 10826 Brake Fluid
If you are shopping on a budget and you really cannot settle for one of those premium oils with a heavy price tag then you do not need to worry because we have brought to you right now, a product that would fit into your budget and still offer you great value for your money.
The product we are talking about is the Lucas synthetic DOT 3 brake fluid and this is one brake fluid that anyone can actually make use of with ease.
The formulation of this brake fluid consists of a blend of high-quality polyglycol ethers mixed some other additives and you can rest assured that this formulation enables it to work with the rubber components of any braking system.
If you want a brake fluid that is capable of offering your braking system desired level of lubricity as well as fighting against corrosion then this is absolutely the best option for you.
It is a cheap product notwithstanding but at the same time it promises to perform like other premium products because it is manufactured also by a high profile and trusted company.
Key Features:
- Mixes well with other kinds of fluids
- Does not allow corrosion
- Offers great lubricity
- Has a boiling point of 401 degrees Fahrenheit
10. Red Line 90402 Rl-600 Brake Fluid
The Red Line company has manufactured a very good brake fluid and this is, however, one company that has been in the business of making high-quality fluids and lubricants for a very long while.
This brake fluid is one that can be trusted for use in race vehicles and also in vehicles with high performance and what this actually tells you is this is the best brake fluid for use under hot or heating conditions.
Do not get use wrong, this brake fluid isn’t just for use in high-performance vehicles but whatever car brake system that you put it into, be rest assured that you are getting the best result out of it.
What tends to amaze people more about this brake fluid is the fact that it is quite resistant to high heat and its stopping power, however, doesn’t reduce no matter how hot the temperature is.
This brake is actually very expensive but it is quite safe and also delivers excellent value for the money spent on purchasing it.
Key Features:
- Highly resistant to heat
- Has an excellent stopping power
- High-quality brake fluid
11. Castrol 12614 Dot 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid
We really cannot deny that Castrol is one of the best brake fluid manufacturers we have on the market today because if you take a look at the market, you would realize that this brand has some high-quality brake fluid that has been able to meet up with customer satisfaction.
This particular model has the same story and what makes it unique is the fact that it has both the DOT 4 and DOT 3 specification.
What this means is that this brake fluid features more of polyglycols and this makes it a good choice for high-performance vehicles and you can trust that the brake fluid would meet up with customer’s demands under any situation especially a hot situation.
You can rely on this brake fluid to help in boosting applied force and this is also possible thanks to its rich composition.
It also mixes with other oils to form a superb blend which helps to boost performance and this is also why this product is being ranked among other high-quality products on the market.
Key Features:
- Satisfactory product
- Works well even under high temperature
- Has a very rich composition
12. Wilwood 290-6209 auto part
If you want your car to make use of brake fluids that would surpass the regular and conventional SAE and DOT fluid standards then this is the brake fluid for you. You can trust this Wilmood high tech racing fluid which is well formulated to endure high temperatures and a high boiling point. This is just one high-quality brake fluid from Wilmood that you do not want to miss out from.
Furthermore, this brake fluid has what it takes to fight back the build-up of air and water in the brake system and this is just perfect in the sense that it makes sure that there isn’t any form of abrasion or corrosion in the braking system.
With this brake fluid, you can trust that there would be a lot of power supply directly to the driver while its excellent lubrication makes every ride safe.
Thanks to its potential and power, this brake fluid is the ideal choice for high performance and racing cars.
Key Features:
- Has high boiling points
- Available in huge quantity
- Has excellent lubrication
- Superb for water absorption
13. Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid
If you have a high-performance vehicle or you are a racer then this is certainly the brake fluid you have been looking for as it is made by the reputable Castrol brand which is known for not compromising on the quality in any of their products.
This is a top-rated brake fluid as it goes beyond the DOT 3 and DOT combined specification. It, however, comes in a huge pack meaning you are getting a product that would serve you for a very long while.
Users are intrigued by its exceptional high boiling point thanks to its European formula and one other outstanding aspect of this brake fluid is its anti vapor lock design which makes sure that vapor remains locked in therefore ensuring that your vehicle braking system doesn’t encounter any harm.
With all of these features and benefits, it wouldn’t be much to splash some cash in purchasing this high-quality brake fluid.
Key Features:
- Has high boiling points
- Comes with an anti vapor lock feature
- Best product for racers
- Capable of delivering impressive performances
14. Genuine Toyota Fluid 00475-1BF03 Brake Fluid
Most customers have been amazed so far at how cheap and affordable this brake oil is considering the fact that it was manufactured by a high profile brand like Toyota and what’s more, this brake fluid has the DOT 3 specification but what turns most buyers off from this product is the fact that the quantity is very poor.
The main aim of this product is to help improve your vehicle’s performance. For this reason, it is a very good option for vehicles that makes use of the hydraulic clutch system while its boiling points are quite high therefore cutting down on vapor lock.
There are other benefits attached to this product and that includes providing optimal protection and preventing corrosion and even though this oil is specifically for routine cars, it is also a good option for high-performance vehicles.
This product, however, comes at a very decent price but when you take a look at the quantity and its price then you might get a bit disappointed but nonetheless, this product is actually a very good brake fluid.
Key Features:
- Formulated to fight against leakages and corrosion
- Protects the brake system
- Delivers an impressive performance
- Has a remarkable quality
15. Endless RF-650 Racing Brake Fluid
Here is the last product to make it to this review but this doesn’t mean that this product is the least of all the products that we have mentioned. For a fact, this is one brake fluid that has been used in Formula 1, WRC as well as the Dakar Rally.
4It is such a good choice for racers as it is designed to help attain a stable performance even under very hot conditions. This definitely one brake fluid that has got the eye of buyers all over the world.
Having high velocity and high viscosity makes way for a fast and precise braking experience no matter the temperature and one other notable aspect of this brake fluid is it is also designed to resist very low freezing point and this makes it a very good choice for snow rallies.
Its high boiling point also shows how effective this brake fluid is even at high temperatures. It is also a good option for use in humid environments due to the fact that it absorbs very low humidity.
Key Features:
- Higher than DOT specifications
- Guarantees fast and precise braking
- Delivers a stable performance
- Has a high dry boiling point
Factors to Evaluate when Shopping for a Good Brake Fluid
There are key factors you should keep an eye for if you desire to purchase a quality brake fluid. These factors would be vital in making the right choice so let’s look at these factors right away;
Mixing Ability – similar to motor oils, it is possible for some brands to be able to mix greatly with others. Being able to mix means you no longer have to drain oils before topping. This also makes brakes more responsive.
Non-Corrosive Nature – fluids that are not corrosive in nature are the best options for the ABS system. Not just do they work well in ABS systems but they also prove to be good options for rubberized systems. They would not cause damage to your vehicle’s paintwork while topping up the brake fluid.
Color – brake fluids tend to have pink or blue colors. This makes visibility much better when trying to drain the braking system.
Water Resistivity – being able to resist water is a very important factor as the entry of water into your vehicle braking system causes the brake pedal to feel spongy. Your brake system would also get less responsive.
Final Words
There you have the best brake fluids on the market right now. These brake fluids are well manufactured to meet the needs of your vehicles and you should take a closer look at their distinctive features and also key factors to look out for so you can end up making the right choice.
