If you own a Subaru BRZ, you are already familiar with its impressive performance and unique style. However, to keep your vehicle in top shape, you must also pay attention to the maintenance aspects. One vital but often overlooked aspect is the brake fluid. This seemingly insignificant liquid plays an important role in providing you with a safe and smooth driving experience.
Brake fluid is the lifeblood of your car’s braking system. It transmits the pressure you apply on the brake pedal to the brake rotors, enabling your car to stop. In high-performance cars like the Subaru BRZ, using the right brake fluid can make a significant difference in braking performance.
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However, with the array of options available in the market, how do you choose the best performance brake fluid for your Subaru BRZ? In this article, we will guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.
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Understanding Brake Fluid Types
Before we delve into the specifics, it’s important to understand the different types of brake fluids available in the market. Brake fluids are typically classified into four types: DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5, and DOT 5.1.
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DOT 3 and DOT 4 are glycol-based fluids, while DOT 5 is a silicone-based fluid. DOT 5.1, like DOT 3 and DOT 4, is also glycol-based but with a higher boiling point. Each type has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on your vehicle’s specifications and your driving habits.
High-performance vehicles like Subaru BRZ benefit from high boiling point brake fluids like DOT 4 or DOT 5.1. These types withstand high temperatures generated during aggressive driving without losing their performance capabilities.
Evaluating Your Driving Conditions
The style of your driving and the conditions you drive in play a significant role in choosing the appropriate brake fluid. If you often drive in city traffic, where frequent braking is required, a brake fluid with a high boiling point such as DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 is advisable. These fluids can handle the heat generated by the braking system without evaporating or breaking down.
On the other hand, if you often drive your Subaru BRZ on racetracks or mountainous terrains, you might need a racing brake fluid. These fluids have even higher boiling points than standard DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluids, offering superior performance under extreme conditions. But remember, racing brake fluids are not usually suitable for regular street use due to their quick absorption of water.
Considering the Brake Fluid Brand
Brand reputation also matters when choosing brake fluid. Established brands are often more reliable, as they have been tested and proven over time. They also comply with necessary safety standards and regulations, ensuring the quality and performance of their products.
When it comes to performance brake fluid for Subaru BRZ, some of the reputable brands include Motul, Brembo, and ATE. These brands offer brake fluids with exceptional performance characteristics suitable for high-performance vehicles.
Checking the Vehicle’s Manual
Your Subaru BRZ’s owner’s manual contains valuable information about the recommended brake fluid. It’s crucial to adhere to these recommendations as the manufacturer understands the specifics of the vehicle’s braking system.
The manual will specify the type of brake fluid that is compatible with your Subaru BRZ. If it recommends a DOT 4 fluid, sticking to that recommendation ensures that the brake fluid you choose will work optimally with your vehicle’s braking system.
Evaluating the Brake Fluid’s Specifications
Finally, it’s essential to evaluate the specifications of the brake fluid. Key specifications to consider include the boiling point, viscosity, and compatibility with the vehicle’s braking system.
The boiling point refers to the temperature at which the brake fluid will start to boil. A higher boiling point indicates that the fluid can withstand higher temperatures, which is crucial for high-performance driving.
The viscosity of the brake fluid affects how it flows within the braking system. A fluid with the right viscosity will flow smoothly, ensuring efficient transmission of braking force.
Remember, the best brake fluid for your Subaru BRZ is not necessarily the most expensive one. What matters is that it matches your vehicle’s requirements and your driving conditions. So, take your time to understand the different options, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed.
Importance of Regular Brake Fluid Maintenance
Keeping your car’s brake fluid in check is a matter of safety, performance, and longevity. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water over time. When water enters the brake fluid, it lowers the fluid’s boiling point and can lead to a spongy brake pedal or brake failure in severe cases. This water can also cause rust and corrosion in your car’s braking system.
For high-performance vehicles like the Subaru BRZ, it’s generally recommended to change the brake fluid every two years or every 20,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you use your Subaru BRZ for racing or high-performance driving, you may need to change the brake fluid more often.
You can determine whether your brake fluid needs changing by checking its color. Fresh brake fluid is clear and amber-colored, while old or contaminated fluid will be dark and murky. You can also use a brake fluid tester, which measures the amount of water in the brake fluid.
Brake fluid maintenance is not a task that should be overlooked or postponed. Regular brake fluid changes will ensure that your Subaru BRZ’s brakes respond as they should, giving you peace of mind while driving.
Conclusion
Choosing the right performance brake fluid for your Subaru BRZ isn’t just about enhancing your car’s braking performance. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining the longevity and reliability of the braking system. The type of brake fluid, your driving conditions, the brand of the fluid, and the vehicle’s manual are all important factors to consider when selecting the appropriate brake fluid.
High-quality brake fluids from reputable brands such as Motul, Brembo, and ATE are good options for the Subaru BRZ. However, always ensure that the brake fluid you choose is compatible with your vehicle’s requirements and your personal driving habits. Regular brake fluid maintenance is also crucial to keep the braking system functioning optimally.
In the end, the best performance brake fluid for your Subaru BRZ is one that meets your vehicle’s specific needs and your driving conditions. By choosing the right brake fluid for your Subaru BRZ, you’ll be able to experience the best this high-performance vehicle has to offer, while ensuring a safe and smooth driving experience.
