Is Brake Fluid the Same as Brake Oil?
2 Answers
Brake fluid is the same as brake oil; 'brake fluid' is the formal term, while 'brake oil' is the colloquial term. Below is a related introduction to brake fluid: Introduction to Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is the liquid medium in hydraulic braking systems that transmits braking pressure, used in vehicles equipped with hydraulic braking systems. Brake fluid, also known as brake oil or force oil, is an indispensable part of the braking system. Its English name is Brake Fluid. Considerations When Purchasing Brake Oil: Check the product's viscosity and color. Brake fluid that is too thin cannot be used, nor can colorless, transparent fluid (qualified brake fluid is typically light yellow or dark yellow). Qualified brake oil is noticeably thicker than water, resembling diluted honey, and spreads slowly when poured onto a glass plate.
Brake fluid is indeed what we commonly refer to as brake oil. Having driven for over ten years, mechanics always call it that during maintenance. It primarily serves as the hydraulic oil in the braking system, transmitting pressure to clamp the brake pads against the disc. If the fluid level is low or too dirty, braking performance will be compromised. This fluid is highly hygroscopic, and with prolonged use, increased water content lowers its boiling point. When braking, vapor bubbles can form, potentially causing sudden failure. I recommend checking and replacing it every two years or according to the manual's mileage guidelines—don’t wait until you notice vibrations or longer braking distances. Safe driving requires diligence; maintaining proper fluid levels can prevent major issues.
