What is the difference between brake fluid T3 and T4?
2 Answers
Brake fluid T3 and T4 refer to the standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation, namely DOT3 and DOT4. DOT3 is suitable for speeds ranging from 90-140 km/h, while DOT4 is suitable for speeds ranging from 140-180 km/h. Below is a detailed introduction to the DOT standards: 1. DOT3: Equilibrium reflux boiling point of 205°C; main ingredients: glycol ether compounds; compatibility: forward compatible; water absorption: highly prone to water absorption. 2. DOT4: Equilibrium reflux boiling point of 230°C; main ingredients: polyglycol/borate/ester; compatibility: forward compatible; water absorption: prone to water absorption. 3. DOT5: Equilibrium reflux boiling point of 260°C; main ingredients: silicone-based; compatibility: not forward compatible; water absorption: does not absorb water. 4. DOT5.1: Equilibrium reflux boiling point of 260°C; main ingredients: non-silicone-based polyethylene glycol; compatibility: forward compatible; water absorption: does not absorb water.
Speaking of the difference between brake fluid T3 and T4, I've been driving for over ten years and changed the fluid several times. T4 is noticeably more effective. T3 has a lower boiling point, around 205°C dry boiling point. When driving on mountain roads in summer or braking hard in traffic jams, it's prone to vapor lock, causing the brakes to feel soft and unreliable when pressed. T4 has a higher boiling point, reaching up to 260°C, and offers much better stability. Its higher wet boiling point means it absorbs water less quickly, reducing the risk of system corrosion. If your car manual says T4 is compatible, I recommend upgrading—safety first, and it’s also more durable. Don’t mix them randomly, as it could damage components. Regularly replacing the brake fluid every two years is the most reliable approach.