Brake Fluid Used by Acura
Acura recommends using DOT 3 brake fluid. Most sources indicate that Acura/Honda vehicles are designed to use DOT 3 brake fluid.
The boiling point of brake fluid is important for safety. As brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, its boiling point decreases. If the fluid boils during heavy braking, the brakes become less responsive. Contaminated brake fluid can also cause corrosion and premature brake repairs.
Acura recommends changing the brake fluid every 3 years as part of routine maintenance. Brake fluid should be changed by a qualified technician to properly bleed air from the lines.
While some sources mention that DOT 4 fluid can also be used in Acura/Honda vehicles in an emergency, DOT 3 is still the factory recommended type. Other types like DOT 5.1 with a higher boiling point are generally not recommended for daily drivers and could potentially cause corrosion.
So in summary, Acura vehicles are designed to use DOT 3 brake fluid for optimal braking performance and system longevity. Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule helps prevent issues.
Contents
- What happens if you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4?
- Is Honda and Acura brake fluid the same?
- Do you have to use Acura brake fluid?
- Does it matter what brake fluid I use?
- Which is better DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?
- How often does Acura recommend replacing brake fluid?
- Is Honda brake fluid DOT 3 or 4?
- What happens if I put DOT 4 instead of DOT 3?
- Is it OK to just add brake fluid?
- What color is Acura brake fluid?
What happens if you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4?
DOT 3 and DOT 4 are both glycol ether based, and will mix just fine. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point, so depending on the application, it may be necessary to use that instead of DOT 3. Do not mix DOT 5 with either of them, as it is silicone based.
Is Honda and Acura brake fluid the same?
All Acura brake systems are deisgned to work with Honda DOT3 fluid. Even if DOT4 was previously used in the vehicle you’re working on, mix Honda DOT3 with it when you add or replace fluid; it will give the brake system the advantages of the Honda DOT3 formula.
Do you have to use Acura brake fluid?
The use of any non-Acura brake fluid can cause corrosion and may decrease the life of the system.
Does it matter what brake fluid I use?
Although DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids are all glycol-based, the chemical composition of each type of fluid is different, so it will have a different effect on the system. To make sure the system works as it should, the best thing to do is to keep using the brake fluid recommended by the manufacturer.
Which is better DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?
The primary differences between the two include the following: DOT 3 brake fluid will absorb less water than DOT 4 from the air over time, meaning you’ll need to have your fluid changed less frequently. DOT 4 brake fluid has higher dry and wet boiling points, making it safer for higher temperatures.
How often does Acura recommend replacing brake fluid?
Independent of the Maintenance Minder information, replace the brake fluid every 3 years. Inspect idle speed every 160,000 miles (256,000 km).
Is Honda brake fluid DOT 3 or 4?
Dot 3 or 4 will work in Honda. If you are one that does a brake fluid flush and fill on a regular basis, with very few exceptions, it really doesn’t matter which DOT 3, DOT 3/4 or DOT 4 you use for a daily driver.
What happens if I put DOT 4 instead of DOT 3?
They’re used in most modern cars and trucks, because they work with ABS brakes. DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3. You can use DOT 4 where DOT 3 is called for, but not the reverse. Using DOT 3 in a DOT 4 brake risks boiling the brake fluid.
Is it OK to just add brake fluid?
Will go down as soon as you replace those brake pads that level will go back up. So just make sure you don’t feel it over full overfilling. Is almost as bad as under filling it.
What color is Acura brake fluid?
When your brake fluid is brand new, it’s usually a clear or slightly yellow-tinted fluid. The longer you use it, the more it becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, This can turn your brake fluid a dark color that resembles motor oil. This indicates that you’ll need to plan a brake flush as soon as possible.