answersLogoWhite

0

Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic brake applications in motorcycles, automobiles, light trucks, and some advanced bicycles. It is used to transfer force under pressure from where it is created through hydraulic lines to the braking mechanism near the wheels. It works because liquids are not appreciably compressible - in their natural state the component molecules do not have internal voids and the molecules pack together well, so bulk forces are directly transferred to trying to compress the fluid's chemical bonds.

Brake fluid is also commonly used in hydraulic clutches.

Most brake fluids used today are glycol-ether based, but mineral oil (Citroën liquide hydraulique minéral LHM) and silicone (DOT 5) based fluids are also available. Brake fluids must meet certain requirements as defined by various standards set by organizations such as the SAE, or local government equivalents. For example, most brake fluid sold in North America is classified by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) under their own ratings such as "DOT 3" and "DOT 4". Their classifications broadly reflect the concerns addressed by the SAE's specifications, but with local details - Alaska and the Azores have different normal temperature and humidity ranges to consider, for example. Many countries defer explicitly to the SAE specifications, or simply refer to "best practice" which in practice would defer to the SAE.

Glycol-based (DOT 3, 4, 5.1)

  • Alkyl ester
  • Aliphatic amine
  • Diethylene glycol
  • Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether
  • Diethylene glycol monomethyl ether
  • Dimethyl dipropylene glycol
  • Polyethylene glycol monobutyl ether
  • Polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether
  • Polyethylene oxide
  • Triethylene glycol monobutyl ether
  • Triethylene glycol monoethyl ether
  • Triethylene glycol monomethyl ether
Silicone-based (DOT 5)
  • Di-2-ethylhexyl sebacate
  • Dimethyl polysiloxane
  • Tributyl phosphate
User Avatar

Wiki User

15y ago

What else can I help you with?

Continue Learning about Natural Sciences

Low brake fluid signal on Chevy cavlaier?

The low brake fluid signal on a Chevy Cavalier indicates that the brake fluid level is below the recommended level. It is important to add brake fluid immediately to prevent brake system failure, which can result in loss of braking power. Check for leaks in the brake system when topping up the brake fluid.


Why is it dangerous to allow air bubbles into the brake fluid?

Air unlike brake fluid can be compressed. When there is air in the brake system it compresses when you apply the brakes. This causes a loss of brake pressure on the brake pads and results in much longer stopping distances. This is dangerous and will cause an accident.


Why does my Chrysler TC 1999 brake light come on when the car leans to right going around corners?

The brake light coming on when the car leans to the right may indicate a problem with the brake fluid level. When the car leans, the fluid may temporarily move away from the sensor, causing the light to come on. It's recommended to check the brake fluid level and also inspect for any leaks in the braking system.


Side effects of swallowing auto brake fluid?

Swallowing auto brake fluid can be harmful and may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and even chemical burns in the mouth, throat, and stomach. It can also lead to more serious complications like damage to the kidneys, heart, and nervous system. Seek immediate medical attention if brake fluid is ingested.


Does a gallon consist of 64 ounces?

No. 1 gallon = 128 fluid ounces. 64 fluid ounces = 1/2 gallon.

Related Questions

What are the components included in the Shimano hydraulic brake kit?

The components included in a Shimano hydraulic brake kit typically consist of brake calipers, brake levers, hydraulic hoses, and brake fluid.


Where do you put clutch fluid in a 1995 ford escort?

It uses brake fluid in the brake fluid reservoir. The clutch fluid (brake fluid) is fed by the brake fluid reservoir. The clutch fluid reservoir is just beneath the brake fluid reservoir. So, add fluid to the brake fluid reservoir to fill the clutch fluid, also.


Can you mix synthetic brake fluid with normal brake fluid?

Yes. Normal brake fluid is actually synthetic


What kind of brake fluid for 2002 grand am?

It is important to maintain the brake fluid levels in a car. The brake fluid type for a 2002 Grand AM is DOT 3 brake fluid.


Can Castro oil be used for brake fluid?

Only brake fluid can be used for brake fluid. Brake fluid is a glycol-based liquid - it's closer to antifreeze than to oil, but don't use antifreeze in it either. Only brake fluid.


What are some alternatives to mineral oil brake fluid that can be used in vehicles?

Some alternatives to mineral oil brake fluid that can be used in vehicles include silicone-based brake fluid, glycol-based brake fluid, and synthetic brake fluid.


Does a 1989 jeep cj7 take brake fluid and transmission fluid or just transmission fluid?

The brake system uses brake fluid and the trans uses trans fluid.


How do you add brake fluid on forklift?

Locate the brake fluid reservoir, and pour brake fluid in until it's at the appropriate level.


Low brake fluid signal on Chevy cavlaier?

The low brake fluid signal on a Chevy Cavalier indicates that the brake fluid level is below the recommended level. It is important to add brake fluid immediately to prevent brake system failure, which can result in loss of braking power. Check for leaks in the brake system when topping up the brake fluid.


Where do you add Brake Fluid?

Good question. At the brake fluid resovoir


What kind of brake fluid is used in a 1995 Toyota Corolla?

When refilling brake fluid it is important to use the correct type of fluid for the car. For a 1995 Toyota Corolla the correct fluid is brake fluid dot 3 or brake fluid dot 4.


What type of brake fluid is used 2007 impala?

Brake fluid is an extremely important component of vehicle maintenance. For a 2007 Impala, there are several brake fluids to choose from. The brake fluid will depend on the specific needs for your car. The factory brake fluid is a DOT 4 fluid.