What is the Difference Between Brake Fluid and Brake Oil?

1 Answers
VonJasper
07/29/25 8:54pm
There is no difference between brake fluid and brake oil; brake fluid is the formal term, while brake oil is the colloquial name. Brake oil is a functional liquid used to stop the rotation of wheels, serving to transmit energy, and has anti-corrosion, anti-rust, and lubrication properties. Types of brake oil: Castor oil-alcohol type, made from refined castor oil and low-carbon alcohol; Synthetic type, made from ethers, alcohols, esters blended with lubricating, anti-oxidation, anti-rust, and anti-rubber swelling additives; Mineral oil type, made from refined light diesel oil fractions with thickeners added. Precautions for using automotive brake oil: If gasoline, diesel, or engine oil is accidentally mixed into a brake system using synthetic brake oil, the incompatibility between the fluids can reduce braking effectiveness. For vehicles driven normally for 40,000 kilometers or with brake oil used continuously for over 2 years, the brake oil can easily deteriorate due to prolonged use, so timely replacement is necessary. For vehicles equipped with a brake oil level warning device, always monitor whether the warning light is flashing and whether the sensor is functioning properly. When the brake oil is low, it should be replenished promptly. The stored brake oil should be kept between the marked minimum and maximum capacity levels. If the brakes feel inconsistent during normal driving, the brake oil should be replaced immediately. Before replacement, clean the brake system with alcohol. If the vehicle pulls to one side during braking, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the brake system. If the wheel cylinder rubber cup is found to be excessively swollen, it may indicate poor-quality brake oil. In this case, replace it with high-quality brake oil and also replace the rubber cup. During seasonal changes, especially in winter, if braking performance declines, the brake oil grade may not be suitable for winter conditions. When replacing the brake oil, choose one with lower viscosity in cold temperatures. Do not mix different types or brands of brake oil. For brake systems with special requirements, use the specified brand of brake oil. Different brands and types of brake oil have varying formulations, and mixing them can degrade performance. Even brands that claim compatibility or substitutability may not perform satisfactorily, so avoid long-term mixed use. If water or impurities are found in the brake oil, replace or filter it immediately to prevent insufficient braking pressure and compromised braking performance. Regularly replace brake oil: The volume of brake oil changes with temperature, so the brake oil reservoir has a vent hole. Air drawn in through this hole may contain moisture or impurities, which can lower the boiling point of the brake oil. During prolonged braking, the brake system heats up, increasing the risk of vapor lock and compressed air, leading to reduced braking force or failure. For safety, brake oil must be replaced periodically.
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