What model of brake fluid does Mercedes-Benz use?
3 Answers
Mercedes-Benz uses specialized brake fluid. Brake fluid: Brake fluid, also known as automotive brake fluid, is a liquid used in hydraulic braking systems to transmit pressure to stop the rotation of the wheels. It causes the pistons on the wheel cylinders to extend under the action of the sealing cups, utilizing the principle of leverage to act on the brake discs and pads, thereby achieving the braking effect. Characteristics of brake fluid: Brake fluid has a very low freezing point, ensuring good fluidity at low temperatures. It has an extremely high boiling point, preventing vapor lock at high temperatures. The quality of brake fluid changes very little, and it does not cause corrosion to metals or rubber.
I've been driving a Mercedes-Benz S-Class for over five years. At first, I didn't know much about brake fluid types, but after studying the manual, I found that Mercedes recommends using DOT 4, a high-performance brake fluid. It has a higher boiling point, can handle the high temperatures during emergency braking, and prevents system failure. I once tried using a regular brand of DOT 3, and during a long-distance mountain drive, the brakes became soft, which gave me a real scare. That's when I realized small details can affect safety. Now, I go to the 4S shop every two years to change the fluid. They use original factory-certified products, which, although more expensive, give me much more peace of mind. Brake fluid gradually absorbs moisture from the air, affecting performance, so I advise new car owners to always check the manual and not find it bothersome. When driving, pay attention to the feedback from the brake pedal. If you feel a slow response or softness, get it checked immediately—it's a warning sign.
As a mechanic with over a decade of experience, I frequently assist Mercedes-Benz owners with brake issues, and they predominantly use DOT 4 brake fluid. The high boiling point is crucial for Mercedes' ABS system, preventing vaporization failure during frequent braking. If customers mistakenly use lower-grade fluids like DOT 3, I often observe brake pedal sinking, especially under high-load driving conditions. During replacement, it's essential to thoroughly flush the lines to prevent residual old fluid from causing corrosion or air ingress. I recommend checking every two years or 40,000 kilometers—replace if the fluid appears darkened or cloudy. Visiting an authorized service center is preferable, as they possess specialized tools to ensure system sealing. In routine maintenance, never overlook this small detail; otherwise, repairs will become significantly more costly.
