Brake hydraulic oil is a fluid that ensures the proper functioning of the vehicle's brake system and is critical for safe driving. When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic oil transmits the pressure created to the brake calipers, allowing force to be applied to the brake discs. This fluid must be resistant to high temperatures and should not lose performance over time. Although there are different types of brake fluid oil, it is important to choose a suitable model for each vehicle's brake system. Using the wrong hydraulic oil can affect the performance of the brakes, cause wear in the system and even cause malfunctions in the long run. Therefore, sticking to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations when choosing brake hydraulic oil and changing the oil at regular intervals is vital for brake safety.

Brake Hydraulic Oil

Brake hydraulic oil is a special fluid used to produce hydraulic pressure in automobile brake systems. This fluid ensures that the force applied to the brake pedal is transmitted to the brakes. Brake fluid oil is specially formulated to withstand high heat and pressure. When the driver presses the brake pedal, brake hydraulic oil transmits this pressure to the caliper and wheel cylinders, causing the brake pads to rub against the disc or drum. In this way, the vehicle stops safely. The use of a quality brake hydraulic oil ensures safe driving by increasing the performance and reliability of the brake system.

Brake Hydraulic Oil Types 

Brake hydraulic oil is divided into different types according to their chemical composition. Each of them has different properties and areas of use:

• DOT 3: It is the most commonly used type of brake hydraulic oil. It has a medium boiling point and is widely preferred in old vehicles.

• DOT 4: DOT 4, which has a higher boiling point than DOT 3, is frequently used in modern vehicles. It is also suitable for vehicles carrying heavy loads that require greater heat resistance.

• DOT 5: Silicone-based DOT 5 brake fluid oil is preferred in high-performance vehicles and military vehicles. It does not mix with water like DOT 3 and DOT 4 oil, which ensures that the boiling point is maintained.

• DOT 5.1: It is an oil that is not silicone-based, but resistant to high temperatures. It is compatible with DOT 4 and is used in modern vehicles that require high performance.

How Does Brake Hydraulic Oil Work?

Brake hydraulic oil works by transmitting the pressure created when the brake pedal is pressed to the wheels through the pipes in the brake system. Since brake hydraulic oil works in a closed system, sealing is very important. The slightest leak or leak in the brake system can reduce the amount of brake hydraulic oil, reducing the performance of the system. The force applied to the brake pedal is quickly transmitted to the brake pads on the wheels by the brake hydraulic oil. Brake hydraulic oil is very resistant to heat and pressure, but its boiling point may decrease over time by absorbing moisture, which affects brake performance.

Brake Hydraulic Oil Properties

Brake hydraulic oil must have some basic features in order to work effectively:

• High Boiling Point: It must be resistant to the high heat that occurs during braking and must reach its boiling point. protected.

• Moisture Absorption Feature: Brake hydraulic oil can absorb environmental moisture. Brake oil mixed with water lowers its boiling point, so moisture absorption capacity is important.

• Chemical Resistance: It must be chemically stable to be compatible with the metal and rubber parts in the brake system.

• Fluidity: It must have sufficient fluidity even in cold weather. Brake hydraulic oil should not solidify at low temperatures.

  Brake Hydraulic Oil Models

  Brake hydraulic oil models are diversified according to different driving needs and vehicle features. The most commonly used models are varieties such as DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5 and DOT 5.1 DOT 3 brake hydraulic oil is preferred in older model vehicles; DOT 4 It is frequently used in new generation automobiles due to its boiling point. DOT 5  It is silicone-based and stands out in vehicles with more special performance requirements and military vehicles because it does not mix with water. DOT 5.1  offers superior performance with its synthetic structure and is preferred especially in sports cars with its ability to withstand high temperatures. When brake hydraulic oil models are selected according to the conditions of use, they increase the performance of the brake system and provide safe driving.

  What Should Be Considered When Choosing Brake Hydraulic Oil?

When choosing brake hydraulic oil, it is important to choose the most suitable oil according to the vehicle model, production year and purpose of use. For every vehicle, there is a type of brake fluid oil recommended by the manufacturer. Making a choice in line with the features specified in the vehicle owner's manual is necessary for the brake system to work efficiently. Here are some points to consider when choosing brake fluid oil:

• Suitability for Vehicle Type: Not every brake fluid oil is suitable for every vehicle. For example, while DOT 5.1 oil may be more suitable for performance vehicles, DOT 4 may be a better choice for a car suitable for daily use.

• Boiling Point: A brake fluid oil with a high boiling point should be preferred depending on the frequency of use of the vehicle and driving conditions.

• Brand and Quality: Brake fluid oil preferred from reliable and high-quality brands increases the life of the system while increasing safety.

Frequency of Change of Brake Hydraulic Oil

Brake hydraulic oil may absorb moisture over time and lower its boiling point. It is recommended to replace it every two years or 40,000 kilometers. However, vehicle use, driving conditions and brake system condition may change this time. More frequent replacement may be recommended for performance vehicles or vehicles carrying heavy loads.

Things to Consider When Using Brake Hydraulic Oil

• Make Sure of the Quality of the Oil: Cheap or poor quality brake hydraulic oil may cause a decrease in performance in the brake system.

• Pay Attention to Sealing: There may be a leak in the system during the brake hydraulic oil change.

• Protection from Humidity: Brake hydraulic oil is prone to absorb moisture. For this reason, the cap of the oil bottle should be closed tightly after each use and stored in a dry environment.

Brake Hydraulic Oil Prices

Brake hydraulic oil prices vary depending on the brand, quality and type of oil. Better quality, high-performance brake fluid oil may have a higher price tag than lower-quality products. The type of oil the vehicle requires is another factor that affects the price. Price information may vary depending on current market conditions and place of purchase; While certain brands are generally offered at more affordable prices, high performance brands are priced at higher levels.

What are the Types of Brake Hydraulic Oil?

• Organic Brake Hydraulic Oil: It is a type of oil obtained from natural sources, used in some old model vehicles. However, today, organic oil has been replaced by more durable and long-lasting oil.

• Silicone Based Brake Fluid Oil: Silicone-based oil, known for its higher boiling point, has a constant boiling point because it does not mix with moisture.

• Synthetic Brake Hydraulic Oil: Synthetic oil, recommended for most modern vehicles, provides superior performance as it has lower viscosity.

How Frequently Should the Brake Hydraulic Oil Be Changed?

How often the brake hydraulic oil should be changed varies depending on the vehicle's usage conditions and the type of brake system. In addition to regular maintenance, this period can be increased more frequently for drivers with certain driving habits. For example, high-performance vehicle users should change oil more frequently.

Why is Brake Hydraulic Oil So Important?

Brake hydraulic oil is one of the most important components that ensure the vehicle stops safely. Especially at high speeds or difficult road conditions, brake hydraulic oil ensures efficient operation of the brake system. Choosing the right oil is critical for the safety and driving comfort of the vehicle.