I just did the brake fluid on my 3 cars and noticed that the DOT 4 by Ford Motorcraft is almost double the DOT 3 for my Mopar and GM. Since I am no mechanic by any means I was wondering why the DOT 4 is more pricey.

 

Short version DOT 4 is More Expensive To Produce! It Has a Higher Boiling Point and Additional Ingredients in it!

KC

https://blog.amsoil.com/dot-3-and-do...SAAEgKvxvD_BwE


DOT 4 brake fluid is more expensive than DOT 3 primarily
due to its superior performance characteristics, specifically higher boiling points (both dry and wet) and the inclusion of borate esters. These additives enable better performance under extreme heat, such as in high-performance, heavy, or ABS-equipped vehicles, resulting in a more complex, costly formulation.
Key Reasons for Higher Cost:

Higher Performance: DOT 4 is designed to resist boiling at higher temperatures

Advanced Formulation: It includes borate esters that help manage higher temperatures and reduce moisture absorption effects, creating a more robust, expensive product to manufacture.
Added Value/Benefits: DOT 4 is safer for heavy-duty, high-performance, or modern ABS braking systems, which justifies a premium price for better safety and braking performance.

 

^^^ Thanks!! I probably knew that at one time but forgot. Maybe I don't need to do it so often then. I'm just in the habit. It still gets 'dirty' looking in the reservoir. .

 

I have used Castrol? synthetic DOT3/4 and it works fine as far as I can tell; price is very reasonable at the local auto parts store or maybe even Walmart

 

^^^ That's probably the smart thing to buy. I get 'antsy' buying certain products though, and instead of worrying about it, just buy the products with the Ford, Mopar, GM names on them. I still even buy Motorcraft oil and filters for the GT.