Is it necessary to replace ATE brake fluid?
3 Answers
It is necessary to replace ATE brake fluid. Advantages of ATE brake fluid: ATE Super Racing brake fluid not only far exceeds other brands in terms of dry and wet boiling points and other indicators, but also has excellent thermal fade control, greatly improving the stability performance for multiple intense braking in racing conditions. Its durability far surpasses the six-month replacement cycle of DOT5 or 5.1 grade fluids, offering a replacement interval of up to three years. Additionally, it has no side effects of corroding plastic brake lines, making it the best match for modified multi-piston brake systems. Performance of ATE brake fluid: Quickly transmits force from the master cylinder to the wheel cylinders. High boiling point (braking generates high temperatures). Stable viscosity, unaffected by temperature. Excellent lubricity, reducing friction between cylinders and seals due to lubrication.
Honestly, changing ATE brake fluid is absolutely necessary. I've been driving for over a decade and always pay attention to this detail. Brake fluid's job is to transfer pressure to assist braking, but it has one issue: it absorbs moisture from the air. Over time, as moisture builds up, the boiling point drops. When you hit the brakes, the fluid can bubble and vaporize, making emergency braking feel weak—especially dangerous at high speeds or on mountain roads. I remember last year going downhill, I almost rear-ended someone, and the investigation showed it was due to aged brake fluid not being replaced in time. ATE is a good brand with high-quality fluid, offering durability and stable boiling points, but all brake fluids inevitably absorb moisture and degrade, regardless of brand. Generally, it's recommended to inspect and replace it every two years or 20,000 kilometers. You can DIY the replacement, but you'll need a moisture test pen to check the water content, or just take it to a shop—it doesn’t cost much but could save your life. Regular maintenance also extends the lifespan of the entire braking system, reducing corrosion on components like calipers and pumps.
As someone who frequently tinkers with car repairs, I find changing to ATE brake fluid quite worthwhile. Unlike engine oil which needs changing daily, brake fluid is the soul of the braking system. When it gets wet, it turns cloudy, affecting sensitivity and braking distance, especially during repeated braking in city traffic jams where performance degrades quickly. ATE fluid has better moisture resistance and a higher boiling point, making it suitable for aggressive driving or high-temperature regions. However, all brake fluids lose half their effectiveness in two to three years. I make it a habit to record with an annual vehicle inspection sheet and change it when the fluid level is low or the color darkens. A single fluid change costs around a hundred bucks, saving the risk of major repairs. If left unchanged, moisture can cause parts to rust, and repairing a pump or pipeline can cost thousands, which isn’t worth it. It’s best to follow the manual’s maintenance cycle for safety and cost-effectiveness.
