Ford Brake Fluid Recommendation
Ford recommends using DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) High Performance Brake Fluid or an equivalent meeting the specification WSS-M6C65-A2. The use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause degraded brake performance and not meet the Ford performance standards. It is important to keep the brake fluid clean and dry to maintain its properties and performance. The properties of the recommended fluid are very similar to other fluids, such as boiling point and moisture absorption.
Importance of Using Recommended Brake Fluid
Using the recommended brake fluid is crucial for maintaining the braking system’s performance and safety. Different types of brake fluids have been rated according to DOT regulations, and it is essential to use the recommended fluid for your car and avoid mixing different brake fluids. Contamination of the brake fluid by air and water can damage its properties, reducing its stopping power. Low brake fluid levels can allow air to enter the circuit, leading to brake failure, which can be dangerous. Additionally, brake fluid is corrosive, irritating, and toxic, so it should be handled with care, and spills should be cleaned with water and the area dried thoroughly.
Additional Information
It’s worth noting that there are different types of brake fluids, such as DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1. Each type has specific properties and usage recommendations. It’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s specifications and recommendations when choosing brake fluid for your vehicle.
In summary, for Ford vehicles, it is recommended to use DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) High Performance Brake Fluid or an equivalent meeting the specification WSS-M6C65-A2 to ensure optimal brake performance and safety.
Contents
- Can I use DOT 3 instead of DOT 4 brake fluid?
- What happens if I use the wrong brake fluid?
- Which is better 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?
- Does Ford use DOT 3 brake fluid?
- Does Ford recommend changing brake fluid?
- What is the difference between DOT 3 and DOT 4?
- Can you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4?
- What happens if I mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?
- Does it matter what brand of brake fluid I get?
- What are the disadvantages of DOT 3 brake fluid?
Can I use DOT 3 instead of DOT 4 brake fluid?
Yes. DOT 3 brake fluid is compatible with DOT 4 brake fluid. However, DOT 4 offers a higher boiling point. DOT 5.1 is used in high-performance and heavy-duty applications due to its high boiling point.
What happens if I use the wrong brake fluid?
Brake systems use hydraulic fluid that’s specially formulated for the purpose. Substituting transmission or power-steering fluid, which are similar to each other, can affect the seals, damage the system, and possibly cause brake failure.
Which is better 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid?
Compared to DOT 3, DOT 4 brake fluid has higher wet and dry boiling points, which yields better performance and higher braking temperatures and in high performance applications. Although DOT four is becoming more popular, you’re mainly going to see it in European nameplates.
Does Ford use DOT 3 brake fluid?
They’re different – they have different applications. All these trucks are designed to use DOT3 – that’s what will give the best performance. Consider replacing the 3 rubber brake hoses when your system is apart for maintenance. Use the Dot 3 fluid.
Does Ford recommend changing brake fluid?
Every Three Years
Throughout the life of your Ford F-150 your brake fluid will need to be replaced at every 3-year interval. Brake fluid is used to protect the metals that make up your brake components.
What is the difference between DOT 3 and DOT 4?
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.
Can you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4?
And Dot 4 are glycol ether-based fluids and the main difference lies in their boiling points DOT. 4 has a higher boiling point meaning it can handle higher temperatures without causing brake failure.
What happens if I mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?
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.
Does it matter what brand of brake fluid I get?
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.
What are the disadvantages of DOT 3 brake fluid?
Advantages and Disadvantages
It is suitable for vehicles without ABS, and it is less expensive compared to DOT 4 brake fluid. However, its lower boiling point can lead to becoming ineffective and not compatible with high-performance vehicles and those with ABS systems.