Best DOT 4 Brake Fluid – 7 Options Reviewed

Changing your brake fluid might not be the most glamorous car maintenance task, but it’s crucial for safety. I recently went through this process myself, and let me tell you, choosing the right DOT 4 brake fluid can feel overwhelming! There are so many options out there. This guide will walk you through seven popular choices, helping you find the best DOT 4 brake fluid for your needs and budget. We’ll cover key features, pros and cons, and real-world considerations to help you make an informed decision.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	BRAKE FLUID DOT 4 1QT	View on Amazon
	STP Synthetic Brake Fluid, Dot 4 Brake Fluid Protects…	View on Amazon
	LIQUI MOLY DOT 4 Brake Fluid, 1 Liter (Pack of…	View on Amazon
	Motul MTL100949 8068HL RBF 600 Factory Line Dot-4 100…	View on Amazon
	ATE Original TYP 200 Racing Quality DOT 4 Brake Fluid,…	View on Amazon
	Johnsen’s 5034 Premium Synthetic DOT-4 Brake Fluid – 1…	View on Amazon
	BOSCH ESI6-32N Brake Fluid (Direct Replacement for DOT 3,…	View on Amazon

BRAKE FLUID DOT 4 1QT

This is a straightforward DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid, coming in a quart bottle. It’s a solid, no-frills option that gets the job done. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a simple, affordable replacement.

• DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid
• Quart size

Pros:
– Affordable
– Easy to find

Cons:
– Lacks advanced features found in other options
– No specific performance data readily available

User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews highlighting its affordability and functionality. Some users noted it’s a basic option without extra features.

STP Synthetic Brake Fluid, Dot 4 Brake Fluid Protects…

STP is a well-known name in automotive products, and their DOT 4 brake fluid lives up to the brand’s reputation for reliability. It offers good protection against corrosion and vapor lock, essential for maintaining consistent braking performance.

• Increases dry boiling point
• Protects against brake failure from vapor lock
• Helps prevent corrosion
• Meets SAE spec. J1704

Pros:
– Reliable brand
– Good protection against vapor lock and corrosion

Cons:
– Might not offer the highest boiling point compared to some premium options

User Feedback Summary: Users generally praise its performance and value for the price. Some mention a slightly lower boiling point compared to higher-end fluids.

LIQUI MOLY DOT 4 Brake Fluid, 1 Liter (Pack of…)

Liqui Moly is known for its high-quality automotive chemicals, and their DOT 4 brake fluid is no exception. The synthetic formulation boasts a high wet and dry boiling point, providing excellent protection even in demanding conditions.

• Synthetic formulation
• High wet and dry boiling point
• Corrosion and oxidation protection

Pros:
– Excellent high-temperature performance
– Superior corrosion protection

Cons:
– More expensive than some other options

User Feedback Summary: Users consistently highlight its superior performance and longevity. The higher price point is often mentioned, but many feel it’s justified by the quality.

Motul MTL100949 8068HL RBF 600 Factory Line Dot-4 100…

Motul is a popular choice among enthusiasts, and their RBF 600 is a high-performance DOT 4 fluid. Designed for demanding applications, it offers excellent thermal resistance and helps reduce brake fade.

• For hydraulic brake and clutch systems
• Non-silicone synthetic fluid
• Extreme thermal resistance

Pros:
– High-performance formulation
– Excellent thermal stability
– Reduces brake fade

Cons:
– Premium price point
– May be overkill for everyday drivers

User Feedback Summary: Users who track their cars or frequently experience demanding braking situations highly recommend this fluid. The cost is a factor for many, but the performance gains are noticeable.

ATE Original TYP 200 Racing Quality DOT 4 Brake Fluid,…

ATE is another well-regarded brand known for its high-quality brake components. This DOT 4 fluid offers exceptional water absorption resistance, extending service intervals and maintaining consistent braking performance.

• Minimal boiling point decrease
• Non-foaming
• Excellent corrosion protection

Pros:
– Long service intervals
– Excellent water absorption properties
– Superior corrosion protection

Cons:
– Higher price than some basic options

User Feedback Summary: Users appreciate the long service intervals and consistent braking performance. The cost is again a consideration, but the extended lifespan justifies it for some.

Johnsen’s 5034 Premium Synthetic DOT-4 Brake Fluid – 1…

Johnsen’s offers a premium synthetic DOT 4 brake fluid that exceeds the requirements for both DOT 3 and DOT 4. It’s designed for various brake systems and includes special ingredients to protect against vapor lock and moisture absorption.

• Synthetic quality
• Protects against vapor lock and moisture absorption
• Exceeds DOT 3 and DOT 4 requirements

Pros:
– Good all-around performance
– Protection against vapor lock and moisture
– Meets multiple standards

Cons:
– Performance might not match high-end racing fluids

User Feedback Summary: A solid mid-range option praised for its reliability and performance across a range of vehicles and driving styles.

BOSCH ESI6-32N Brake Fluid (Direct Replacement for DOT 3,…

Bosch’s ESI6-32N offers an extended service interval, claiming to last longer than standard DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids. This can translate to less frequent fluid changes, saving time and potentially money in the long run.

• Extended Service Interval (ESI)
• Exceeds DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5 standards
• High compatibility

Pros:
– Extended service life
– High compatibility with different DOT standards

Cons:
– May not offer the same extreme temperature performance of some specialized fluids.

User Feedback Summary: Users appreciate the extended service interval, finding it convenient and cost-effective. Some mention it’s a good choice for those who prefer less frequent maintenance.

Practical Buying Advice:

The “best” DOT 4 brake fluid depends on your individual needs and driving style. If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable option for everyday driving, the BRAKE FLUID DOT 4 1QT or STP options are excellent choices. For more demanding conditions or extended service intervals, consider the Liqui Moly, Motul, ATE, or Bosch options. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure compatibility before purchasing any brake fluid.

Final Verdict:

There’s no single “best” DOT 4 brake fluid. The ideal choice depends on your vehicle, driving habits, and budget. This review provides a helpful starting point to make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I change my brake fluid?
A: Generally, brake fluid should be changed every 2-3 years, or according to your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Q: What happens if I don’t change my brake fluid?
A: Old brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point. This can lead to vapor lock, causing brake failure.

Q: Can I mix different types of DOT 4 brake fluid?
A: While generally not recommended, mixing similar DOT 4 fluids from reputable brands is usually acceptable in a pinch. It is best to flush and replace completely with the same type at your earliest convenience.

Q: What’s the difference between DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid?
A: DOT 4 has a higher boiling point than DOT 3, offering better performance in high-temperature situations.

Q: Is synthetic brake fluid better than conventional?
A: Synthetic brake fluid generally has a higher boiling point and better resistance to moisture absorption, leading to longer lifespan and improved performance.

Q: Can I use DOT 5 brake fluid in my car?
A: Not unless your car is specifically designed for it. DOT 5 is silicone-based and is not compatible with DOT 3 or DOT 4 systems. Mixing them can cause serious damage.