The best brake fluids in 2022

Brake fluid is used to fill the hydraulic brake system of a car and ensure its performance. The safety of road users directly depends on its functions and certain characteristics. The composition must have a number of properties necessary not only for the efficient operation of the entire mechanism, but also to ensure the long service life of the parts inside it. The liquid should not freeze in the cold and boil when heated.

It is very important to choose a quality composition that is suitable for your car. Together with experts, we have prepared a ranking of the best brake fluids of different classes on the market in 2022. We will analyze their pros and cons, and also share our experience, what to consider when choosing and what characteristics to pay attention to in the first place. 

Editor’s Choice 

Brake fluid Castrol Brake Fluid DOT 4

The fluid is suitable for use in automotive hydraulic systems, including those where the brakes are often subjected to high loads. The active substances used in the composition protect parts from increased wear and corrosion. In general, the composition of the liquid is designed in such a way that the boiling point is significantly higher than that of products from other manufacturers. Can be used in both cars and trucks. 

Advantages and disadvantages

Rating of the top 10 brake fluids according to KP

1. Brake fluid MOBIL Brake Fluid DOT 4

The fluid is designed for modern vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes and stabilization systems. It is created on the basis of special components that provide both effective use in parts of both new and used machines, and also protects mechanisms from increased wear and corrosion. 

Advantages and disadvantages

2. Brake fluid LUKOIL DOT-4

Contains special components that ensure stable operation of the brake mechanisms in all conditions, as well as protect against corrosion and premature wear of parts. The manufacturer guarantees the efficient operation of systems of different designs, therefore it is equally suitable for use in cars of both domestic and foreign production.

Advantages and disadvantages

3. Brake fluid G-Energy Expert DOT 4

Suitable for use in brake systems of vehicles of various modifications and classes. The components in its composition ensure the performance of parts in the temperature range from -50 to +50 degrees. It can be used in cars of domestic and foreign production, the operational properties have a sufficient margin for the use of fluid in trucks.

Advantages and disadvantages

4. Brake fluid TOTACHI TOTACHI NIRO Brake Fluid DOT-4

Brake fluid based on a complex combination of components, supplemented with high performance additives. Provides a long service life of brake system parts and high performance over a long period, regardless of the season of use and the climatic zone in which the vehicle is operated.

Advantages and disadvantages

5. ROSDOT DOT-4 Pro Drive Brake Fluid

Created using a unique technology on a synthetic basis, excluding reaction water. As a result, a longer operation of the vehicle’s brake system is ensured, parts are saved from increased wear and corrosion. Drivers note stable braking control.

Advantages and disadvantages

6. Brake fluid LIQUI MOLY DOT 4

Brake fluid containing additives that help protect the engine from corrosion. The composition of the additives creates conditions that exclude vaporization, which ensures fast response when braking. The composition uses components that have a positive effect on the safety of system parts. Formulated to mix products from different manufacturers for improved performance and ease of maintenance.

Advantages and disadvantages

7. Brake fluid LUXE DOT-4

It can be used in systems of various car designs equipped with both disc and drum brakes. An effective additive package provides optimal viscosity and protection of parts. Performance characteristics allow mixing with glycol-based fluids.

Advantages and disadvantages

 8. Brake fluid LADA SUPER DOT 4

Synthetic brake fluid made according to a patented formula containing additives that increase the life of mechanisms. It can be used in the brake system of both domestic and foreign cars. Conforms to the requirements of international quality standards.

Advantages and disadvantages

9. Brake fluid TOTAL DOT 4 HBF 4

Brake fluid made from synthetic raw materials with a complex of additives that ensure stable operation of the system and protection of parts made of various materials. Retains its characteristics throughout the entire service life.

Advantages and disadvantages

10. Brake fluid SINTEC Euro Dot 4

The composition can be used in domestic and foreign cars, has the properties necessary for the anti-lock braking system and stabilization system. Complies with international quality standards.

Advantages and disadvantages

How to choose brake fluid

In order to choose a high-quality brake fluid, you need to study the manufacturer’s recommendations. The owner’s manual of the vehicle lists the characteristics of the recommended composition, and sometimes the specific make and model.

What to do before buying:

1. Determine clearly what type of fluid is required or consult a service station.
2. Do not take liquid in a glass container, because in this case the tightness and safety are not properly ensured.
3. Contact only authorized stores or service stations.
4. Make sure that the company’s details, a barcode and a protective seal are present on the packaging.

What else do experts advise to pay attention to:

Alexey Ruzanov, technical director of the international network of car services FIT SERVICE:

“Brake fluid should be selected based on vehicle specifications. To date, there are several main types – DOT 4, DOT 5.0 and DOT 5.1. Use the one recommended by the manufacturer. If between DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 the difference is only in the boiling point, then DOT 5.0 is generally a very rare brake fluid that cannot be mixed with anything. Therefore, if DOT 5.0 is prescribed for a car, then in no case should DOT 4 and DOT 5.1 be filled in and vice versa.

For brands, as well as when choosing any technical fluid, you need to choose a trusted manufacturer that eliminates the possibility of counterfeit products as much as possible. If this is some kind of incomprehensible “no name”, then the quality of the brake fluid will be in question. And if it is a proven and well-known brand, then most likely you will get a quality product.

The compositions are hygroscopic and absorb moisture from the atmosphere. Many people think that the brake system is sealed, but it is not. The same plastic or rubber tank cap freely lets air through. Therefore, it is imperative to change the brake fluid every two years, otherwise it picks up moisture and begins to boil or air bubbles appear, and in winter it may even freeze. It is impossible that the proportion of moisture be more than 2%. Therefore, the replacement is once every two years or after a mileage of 40 thousand kilometers.

Service Director AVTODOM Altufievo Roman Timashov:

“Brake fluids are divided into three types. Oil-alcohol are used for cars with drum brakes. The higher the boiling point, the better. If the liquid boils, air bubbles form, due to which the braking force weakens, the pedal fails, and braking efficiency decreases.

Glycolic fluids are the most common. They have sufficient viscosity, high boiling point and do not thicken in the cold.

Silicone brake fluids remain functional at extreme temperatures (-100 and +350 °C) and do not absorb moisture. But they also have a drawback – low lubricating properties. Therefore, the brake system must be carefully and regularly checked. Basically, this type of fluid is used in racing cars.

The operating documentation for the car will help you not to make a mistake in choosing a brake fluid. You can also use the selection table for a specific car model.

The composition must first of all have high lubricating properties, low hygroscopicity (the ability to accumulate moisture from the environment), and anti-corrosion characteristics.

Mixing different classes is strictly prohibited.

Replacement is necessary if a leak is detected or moisture has accumulated in the fluid, it has become cloudy or sediment has appeared. The composition must remain transparent. If it’s dark, it’s time to change the fluid. Black sediment is a sign of worn cuffs or pistons.

Popular questions and answers

The issue of using brake fluid is one of the most difficult for car owners. As a rule, few people have a real idea what is currently filled, how to check its level and when it needs to be changed. We have collected the most common questions that drivers have.