Best Brake Fluids of 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Brake fluids are an essential component of any vehicle's braking system. They are responsible for transmitting the force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers, which then clamp down on the rotors to slow or stop the vehicle. Brake fluids come in different types, including DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1, each with its own set of properties and compatibility with different brake systems. It is important to use the correct brake fluid for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and safety. Regular maintenance and replacement of brake fluids are also crucial for the longevity of the braking system.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Brake Fluids
Prestone AS401 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid - 32 oz.
Prestone Synthetic Brake Fluid is a reliable brake fluid that provides an extra margin of safety in extreme braking conditions. Its mix of polyglycol ethers ensures that hot brake-system operation will not create dangerous vapor, making it an excellent choice for ABS, disc, and drum brake systems. This brake fluid delivers braking power when needed by avoiding a spongy pedal, giving you peace of mind while driving. Plus, both wet and dry boiling points exceed the minimum government standards, ensuring superior performance. With Prestone Synthetic Brake Fluid, you can trust that your brakes will work when you need them most.
Bosch ESI6-32N Brake Fluid - 1 Quart
Bosch ESI6-32N Brake Fluid is a high-quality brake fluid that works as a direct replacement for DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 brake fluids. It has an Extended Service Interval (ESI) that lasts 100% longer than DOT 3, 50% longer than DOT 4, and 10% longer than DOT 5.1, providing long-lasting performance. With a wet boiling point of 365 DegreeF and viscosity at -40 DegreeC of 685mm2/s, it exceeds all DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 standards. Additionally, it has a recommended change interval of 3 years, which is longer than the standard 2 years for most brake fluids.
Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid
The Castrol SRF Racing Brake Fluid is an exclusive European formula with superior anti-vapor lock characteristics, providing excellent braking performance during racing and rallying. Its exceptionally high boiling point and typical wet boiling point of 270deg. C make it ideal for use in arduous conditions. It falls under the Brake Fluids category.
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-4110 DOT 3 Brake Fluid
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-4110 DOT 3 Brake Fluid is a premium hydraulic fluid that safeguards your vehicle's internal components from corrosion while ensuring safe and smooth braking. It has a high boiling point that minimizes brake fluid boiling and vapor lock, and low-temperature capability that provides stability in cold conditions.
Johnsen's 2234 Premium Brake Fluid
Johnsen's Brake Fluid is a top-quality DOT 3 brake fluid that ensures your vehicle's braking system operates effectively. With a minimum boiling point of 450°F, it helps maintain performance even under high temperatures, providing you with peace of mind. This brake fluid meets and exceeds all necessary federal and SAE standards, ensuring reliability and safety. Additionally, it mixes easily with other DOT 3 approved fluids, allowing for seamless integration into your system. Whether you have disc, drum, or ABS brakes, this fluid is designed to cater to your needs, enhancing your driving experience.
Lucas Oil 10826 Brake Fluid
The Lucas Oil 10826 Brake Fluid is a high-quality blend of polyethylene glycol ethers and additives that provides excellent lubricity. It is compatible with all brake system rubber components and other brake fluids, and prevents seal hardening or softening. This brake fluid also protects against rust and corrosion.
Johnsen's Premium Synthetic DOT-4 Brake Fluid - 1 Gallon
Johnsen's Premium Synthetic DOT-4 Brake Fluid is a synthetic quality brake fluid that contains special ingredients to guard against vapor lock and moisture absorption. It exceeds requirements for both DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids and is specially formulated for DOT 4 brake fluid applications. This brake fluid is designed for use in disc, drum and ABS brake systems.
Liqui Moly Brake Fluid DOT 4
Liqui Moly Brake Fluid is a high-quality product imported from Germany, designed to ensure the safety and efficiency of your vehicle's braking system. This premium brake fluid is formulated to withstand high temperatures, which helps maintain optimal braking performance even under demanding conditions. By using this fluid, you can enhance your vehicle's braking responsiveness, giving you confidence on the road. Additionally, its superior formulation helps prevent moisture absorption, which is crucial for preserving the integrity of your braking system over time. With Liqui Moly Brake Fluid, you can drive with peace of mind, knowing you're using a trusted product for your vehicle's needs.
ATE TYP 200 Racing Quality Brake Fluid
ATE TYP 200 Racing Quality Brake Fluid is a high-quality brake fluid that boasts many features. It has excellent water locking properties that result in a minimal decrease in boiling point, making it ideal for racing. It doesn't foam when filling or bleeding the brake system, ensuring maximum safety. The brake fluid has excellent corrosion protection due to its selected additives, and it has a high safety tolerance against steam bubbles. Additionally, it allows for brake fluid changing intervals of up to 3 years.
STP Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
STP Heavy Duty Brake Fluid, also known as STP Brake Fluid, is a high-quality brake fluid that provides essential protection for your brake system. This brake fluid helps prevent brake failure caused by vapor lock, ensuring that your brakes perform consistently and reliably. It also helps to prevent corrosion in the brake system, extending the lifespan of your brake components. STP Brake Fluid is compatible with all brake systems that require DOT 3 fluids, making it a versatile choice for various vehicles. With its compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards and SAE specifications, you can trust that STP Brake Fluid meets the highest quality standards. Keep your brakes in top condition with STP Brake Fluid.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What happens if brake fluid is low?
If the brake fluid is low, it can lead to a soft, bouncy, or spongy brake pedal. Low brake fluid allows air to fill the gaps in the brake line, resulting in reduced brake performance. It is important to address this issue promptly by getting a brake fluid change to ensure safe and effective braking.
2. How do I know I need brake fluid?
Several signs indicate that you may need brake fluid: an unresponsive brake pedal, vibrating brake pads, noisy brakes, ABS warning light, discolored brake fluid, and the vehicle pulling to one side. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to check and possibly replenish your brake fluid.
3. Can I just add brake fluid?
If the brake fluid level is at or above the 'MIN' line, there is no need to add more. However, if it is below the 'MIN' line, you can carefully pry off the reservoir cap and add brake fluid until the level is just under the 'MAX' line. Avoid overfilling the reservoir.
4. Can I drive my car with low brake fluid?
While it is recommended to replenish the brake fluid level, you can drive your car with low brake fluid as long as there is enough fluid to apply sufficient pressure on the brakes. However, it is crucial to address the low brake fluid issue promptly to maintain optimal braking performance and safety.
5. What happens if I never change my brake fluid?
Not changing the brake fluid can lead to several consequences. Over time, the fluid can become heated and even boil, resulting in reduced brake efficiency. Additionally, the build-up of water in the system can cause internal corrosion, damaging components like the master cylinder, calipers, and brake lines.
6. Can I change brake fluid myself?
While a complete brake fluid flush is best left to professionals, you can perform a fluid swap yourself. This involves introducing fresh fluid by replacing a portion of the old fluid. Although it may not replace all the old fluid, it can still make a difference in maintaining brake system performance.
During our brake fluid research, we found 24 brake fluid products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 58,281 customer reviews through our big data system to write the brake fluids list. We found that most customers choose brake fluids with an average price of $15.67.
The brake fluids are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of brake fluids, including Prestone, Bosch, Castrol, ACDelco, Johnsen's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

David Davis has rich experience as a mechanic and a general repairman in the automotive industry. It has given him plenty of knowledge in automobile repair, auto parts, and all kinds of tools. In his spare time, he enjoys assembling and disassembling parts for cars.
Brake Fluids Comparison Table
#TOP1
|
#TOP2
|
#TOP3
|
#TOP4
|
#TOP5
|
#TOP6
|
#TOP7
|
#TOP8
|
#TOP9
|
#TOP10
|
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Prestone | Bosch | Castrol | ACDelco | Johnsen's | Lucas Oil | Johnsen's | Liqui Moly | ATE | STP |
Liquid Volume | 32 Fluid Ounces | 32 Fluid Ounces | 1000 | 16 Fluid Ounces | 128 Fluid Ounces | - | 128 Fluid Ounces | - | 32 Fluid Ounces | 304 Milliliters |
Item Weight | 2 Pounds | 32 Ounces | 0.92 Kilograms | 16 Ounces | 9.05 Pounds | - | 8 Pounds | - | 274.43 Grams | 12.5 Ounces |
Package Information | Bottle | Bottle | Bottle | - | Jug | - | Bottle | - | Can | Bottle |
Material | Abs | - | Silicon | - | Abs | - | Abs | - | - | Abs |
FTB Score |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Where to Buy |