Top up brake/clutch fluid

[timski]

Hi guys,
I need to top up the brake/clutch fluid but I don't know what brand was used before. Would putting a different brand in be a problem?
Thanks,
Tim

[ajsimmo]

You can mix brands OK, just don't add dot5 to earlier types as they don't mix. Most vehicles use dot3 or dot4 and they mix fine.

[kevtherev]

Brake fluid must be changed periodically.

[timski]

Thanks guys. I used dot 4 top it up as suggested.

[California Dreamin]

Hi guys,
I need to top up the brake/clutch fluid but I don't know what brand was used before. Would putting a different brand in be a problem?
Thanks,
Tim

Reading between the lines as I do...a few points:

Braking systems 'don't' used brake fluid...so topping up is usually down to brake pad/shoe wear as the pistons 'come out' to take up the wear.
The reason I mention this is: very low fluid level is an indicator of either worn out pads/shoes or a brake fluid leak...both need investigating, the later obviously with urgency.

The other observation being, if the level has dropped due to wear then topping up is fine but be aware that when you change brake pads, pushing back the pistons will result in the brake fluid overflowing the reservoir.

Clutch master or slave cylinder leaking? the clutch uses the same reservoir and can be responsible for a sudden drop in the reservoir level.

2 yearly brake fluid changes are a must because brake fluid is hygroscopic (attracts water from moisture in the surrounding air) very bad for brakes at is dramatically reduces the boiling point leading to 'Vapour Lock' ..gaseous bubbles forming when the brake fluid prematurely boils with resultant pedal to the floor and NO brakes.
Can you remember the last time yours was changed? 1.5 litres of DOT4 needed for a complete change.

Martin

[timski]

Thanks Martin.

I had a brake pipe replaced a couple of years ago when it failed an MOT (was bulging) so it was done then. I didn't realise the fluid should be changed every 2 years. I'm booking the van in to have the brakes serviced anyway. I'll mention that I had to top it up and ask them to check the clutch master and slave cylinders too.

Tim.