Dot 4 Synthetic

[sleepy2]

Bought Dot 4 Synthetic brake fluid but didn't realize until I got home. Can we use it or do I have to take back and get regular Dot 4????

[Freebird]

I THINk that dot 3, 4, and 5.1 are compatible. 

[CLEON]

Dot 3&4 are compatible as the difference is dot 4’s higher temperature rating.  Dot 5 being silicone based is NOT compatible with either of 3 or 4.

[N3FOL]

I've been using Dot 3 or 4 synthetic on both my RSV and SVTC.  No issues to report.  All ok.

[Steve S]

According to the reports I have read, all brake fluid is synthetic. Make to use the proper DOT number for the application. 

Steve.

[CLEON]

just don't get confused with   SYNTHETIC    and    SILICONE (DOT 5).

[sleepy2]

Thanks for replies! yes I knew not to use Silicone but to use Dot4. the one I bought is Prestone Dot 4 Synthetic! Was checking out sluggishness of towing trailer(chugging)so pulled plugs and then things started to snowball into general maintenance procedures, plugs,air filter cleaning(K/N),brake fluid change,deep clean plus a couple broken tabs on lower fairing,etc.....

[saddlebum]

Dot 5 and dot 5.1 are not the same. Dot 5.1 is glycol based and fully compatible with 3 and 4 but has a higher boiling point and lower moisture absorption rate. It is often used in performance cars. I currently have 5.1 in my rear brake and find the brake more responsive. It is also more expensive.

DOT 5 IS SILICONE BASED and should never be used.

Edited May 20, 2024 by saddlebum