Difference Between Car and Motorcycle Brake Oil
Brake fluid is a component responsible for lubricating the braking system such as discs and brake pads.
This brake fluid works as a hydraulic system distributor that behaves like a fluid. Its use also has different specifications depending on the needs.
Contents of brake fluid
Most hydraulic brake fluids use a chemical formulation that is hygroscopic. Brake fluid contains poly glycol, glycol ether, and additives.
Poly glycol is a liquid with a high viscosity level and functions as a lubricant. Poly glycol can also reduce the effect on rubber.
Meanwhile, glycol ether is used to control viscosity, boiling point, and rubber stability. Then, additives serve to prevent corrosion and oxidation.
Differences between motorcycle and car brake fluid
Both motorcycles and cars are equipped with disc brakes. However, the strength and dimensions may differ from one to another.
The same goes for the use of brake fluid. It is important to note that not all types of brake fluid are suitable for use in various types of vehicles. This is because brake fluid also has different specifications.
These specification differences can be seen from the packaging of the brake fluid, which has a code in the form of DOT or Department of Transportation. This code is usually accompanied by a number. For example, DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.
DOT is a code that indicates the boiling point of the brake fluid when the braking system is in operation. The higher the DOT number, the higher the boiling point.
DOT 3 has a boiling point of 205 degrees Celsius. While DOT 4 can reach 230 degrees Celsius. DOT 5 is considered the most heat-resistant, with a boiling point of 260 degrees Celsius.
Even though the DOT classification of brake fluid is the same, can car brake fluid be used in motorcycles?
In fact, using car brake fluid in motorcycles can be done. As long as the specifications of the brake fluid match the manufacturer's recommendations and the needs of the motorcycle itself.
As long as the specifications are the same, for example, if the motorcycle is recommended to use DOT 3 brake fluid. Then using car brake fluid with similar specifications is still safe to use.
It is different if the specifications do not match the manufacturer's recommendations. For example, assuming that DOT 5 brake fluid is the best because it is more heat-resistant.
Yes, the specifications of DOT 5 brake fluid do have the advantage of not absorbing water, making it suitable for use in humid environments. The content in DOT 5 is also compatible with all types of brake rubber.
However, DOT 5 brake fluid actually has poorer lubricating properties, especially in the event of significant friction. As a result, the driver requires more force when pressing the brake for the braking system to function properly.
The silicone content in DOT 5 does not have the lubricating power like glycol. The impact is that it is not suitable for use in motor vehicles such as motorcycles and cars equipped with ABS, and it can even trigger damage and leaks in the rubber seals on the master brake.
The recommendations stated in the manual cannot essentially be replaced. If you want to replace it, the hydraulic system of the vehicle must also be replaced.
To ensure that the braking system of the car or motorcycle works well, perform regular maintenance on the braking system by changing the brake fluid periodically.
According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the replacement of motorcycle brake fluid should be done at least every 20,000-25,000 kilometers or within a two-year usage period. Meanwhile, for car brake fluid replacement, it is recommended every 40,000 kilometers or within a two-year interval.
However, the interval for replacing brake fluid above depends on the quality of the brake fluid itself. Because if the quality is poor, the brake fluid may already be "depleted" and needs to be replaced within a year.
Author: Dinno Baskoro
