DOT 3 or 4 Brake Fluid, NEW, What color is your supply?

[GCroyle]

Guys,

I trying to investigate a possible contamination issue with brake fluid. The list of fluids in question: DOT 3, 4 (and for the confusing part) 5 and 5.1.

I've researched this quite a bit so far and here is the question that the knowledge base on TDR can help with.


What color(s) of DOT 3 and 4 have you seen or have in your shop? And please be specific with the name brand.


I'm NOT pointing the finger at any of these fluids listed above, used correctly per the manufacturers directions each one has its use and function.

Lately I've seen a bluish tint, today some that has a light red tint and I have some AGS DOT 5 in house that has a light purple tint.

Just a suggestion, be careful not to contaminate your systems that require specific fluid types.

Thanks,

Gary

 

[GCroyle]

Guys,

Just a clarification, NONE of the above is a statement about YOUR DOT 3,4,5 or 5.1 being contaminated.

Just looking for any color tints used in those fluids.

Gary

 

[NIsaacs]

I use Napa DOT 3 and it is a yellowish/clear color.

If this will help, Per: Advance Petrochemicals LTD...Dot 3 can be clear, pale yellow, blue or red tint....Dot 4 can be clear, pale yellow or red....Dot 5.1 can be clear, pale yellow or blue...these are all Poly glycol based and can be mixed. The color is only to assist in leak detection, it is not for identification of the fluid and does not harm the fluid. Dot 5 is synthetic and can not be mixed, it can be violet or purple.

Nick

 

[GCroyle]

Nick,

I'm giving you 6 forum points for your input.

Unfortunately your info only clouds the issue further. Looks like DOT 3 or 4 does not have a distinct color "marker" if this info holds throughout the industry. Interesting this info came from a company in India.

Wish there was a standardish color for at least 3 and 4.

Interesting.

Gary

 

[Wertles]

I know that the specific brake fluid (Motul) I use in my track car comes in both blue and amber. Since fluid changes are 6 months apart or less, they recommend alternating from one color to the other so you know when you have fresh fluid. I don't use the blue. It stains the system and you will always have some variation of blue fluid.

 

[GCroyle]

Interesting reason for a color difference.

 

[crispyboy]

I have been using valvoline synpower for several years and it is clear.