What type of brake fluid does the Vios use?
3 Answers
Vios uses DOT-3 brake fluid. Replacement interval: The Toyota Vios brake fluid should be replaced every 40,000 kilometers, using genuine Toyota brand fluid. Precautions for brake fluid replacement: Whether the wheels need to be removed depends on the position of the bleed screw. If the bleed screw is on the inner side, the wheel must be removed; if it's on the outer side, the hose can be directly connected to extract the fluid. While extracting the old brake fluid, another person should continuously add new brake fluid at the filler port. This method pushes out the old fluid with new fluid while preventing air from entering the system due to complete fluid drainage.
I've been using DOT 4 brake fluid for my Vios for several years, and it's generally recommended. This is because it has a high boiling point and won't vaporize during prolonged braking, which could lead to failure. The manual specifies using DOT 4—don't use older DOT 3 to avoid insufficient performance. Brake fluid should be replaced every two years, as excessive moisture absorption can make the brakes feel spongy and compromise safety. Every time I change it, I check the fluid level and color—if it looks cloudy, I replace it immediately. If you drive frequently, such as in daily city traffic with heavy congestion, you might need to shorten the replacement interval. When choosing a brand, I go for Bosch or Castrol—don’t skimp on quality to save a little money. Remember, regular maintenance helps prevent brake system damage, saving you money and giving you peace of mind.
As someone who enjoys maintaining my own car, I find DOT 4 brake fluid works well for my Vios. Its boiling point is 20 degrees higher than DOT 3, providing more stable braking at high speeds. When purchasing, choose reputable brands like Mobil or OEM to ensure purity and prevent component corrosion. The replacement process is straightforward: follow tutorials to DIY, keep tools ready, and avoid air entering the system. Test brake responsiveness after changing - if spongy, re-bleed the system. Inspect every two years or 30,000 km, more frequently for mountainous driving. Note: brake fluid absorbs moisture which degrades performance, so regularly check the reservoir level and clarity.
