Since brake fluid doesn’t contain any water or mineral oil, you can safely use it as the clutch fluid. Only mineral-type oil or water-based oil is a bad choice for the clutch. It requires hydraulic oil that we use in our brakes.
What happens if you mix brake fluid with water?
The problem with water in brake fluid is that it can encourage corrosion, and that it lowers the boiling point so that after HEAVY use the brakes would be less effective. Brake fluid by its nature absorbs moisture from the air (‘hygroscopic’), that’s the reason it should be changed periodically.
Why does brake fluid absorb water?
Why does brake fluid absorb water? Glycol-ether (DOT 3, 4, and 5.1) brake fluids are hygroscopic (water absorbing), which means they absorb moisture from the atmosphere under normal humidity levels.
Does brake fluid repel or absorb water?
If water is around, brake fluid will absorb it. But the more water it absorbs, the less strength it has. This is why brake fluid exists in a closed system in your car. Most brake fluid will absorb about 2% water over the course of a few years, and that creates a major decrease in the amount of heat and cold that fluid can withstand. This is why it's important to change your brake fluid regularly.
Does brake fluid absorb water?
That means it likes water, just like a sponge. In fact, brake fluid is notorious for absorbing water. Brake fluid can absorb moisture in a variety of ways – through the packaging process, while pouring it into the reservoir and even through the brake fluid lines.
Brake Fluid and Moisture
Brake fluid shelf life is directly related to the amount of moisture it’s exposed to after the bottle has been opened. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means it attracts and absorbs water from the surrounding atmosphere. The more water that it absorbs, the less effective it becomes when introduced into your vehicle’s braking system.
Opened vs. Unopened
When a bottle of brake fluid leaves the factory, it’s sealed so that it doesn’t come into contact with any outside air that might also contain moisture. Most brake fluid manufacturers state that a sealed bottle has no set expiration date.
Oil and Power Steering Fluid
Engine oil follows a different guideline compared to brake fluid shelf life. Although moisture isn’t really an issue for oil, the lifespan of the additives packed inside the bottle has a definite impact on how long it can be stored before it should be thrown away.
