FAQs

Our specialist products are the most widely used racing brake fluids at all levels of motorsport including Formula 1, NASCAR, Indy, Rally, Moto GP and Superbike. Orthene’s ongoing development program constantly drives standards higher and provides the competitive edge constantly sought in this arena.

Brake fluid is a high-performance, safety-critical hydraulic fluid that transfers force from the brake pedal to the braking system. It must be incompressible, have a high boiling point, remain fluid at very low temperatures, and be compatible with all braking system materials.

Yes. The main types are glycol-based fluids (DOT 3, DOT 4, DOT 5.1), silicone-based fluids (DOT 5), and mineral oil fluids. Most modern vehicles use glycol-based brake fluids.

Glycol-based brake fluids absorb moisture over time. This lowers the boiling point and increases corrosion risk, which can reduce braking performance and safety.

As moisture content increases, the boiling point drops. Under braking heat, the fluid can boil, creating vapour that is compressible, leading to brake fade or complete brake failure.

Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation. If none is specified, changing brake fluid approximately every 18–24 months is considered best practice.

DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 are glycol-based fluids with increasing boiling points and performance. ESP (ISO Grade 6) fluids are low-viscosity fluids designed for modern ABS and stability systems.

It represents the boiling point of brake fluid after it has absorbed moisture in service. It is a key indicator of long-term braking safety.

No. DOT 5 is silicone-based and incompatible with conventional systems. DOT 5.1 is glycol-based and compatible with DOT 3 and DOT 4 systems.

No. Conventional brake fluids are synthetic hydraulic fluids and are not compatible with mineral oils.

DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 can generally be mixed, but performance will revert to the lowest grade. DOT 5 and mineral oils must never be mixed with glycol fluids.

Always use the brake fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure correct performance and material compatibility.

Colour is not a reliable indicator of fluid condition or performance. Brake fluid should be changed based on time, moisture content, or manufacturer guidance.

Time is usually a bigger factor than mileage. Moisture absorption occurs even when a vehicle is not driven.

Moisture enters through hoses, seals, reservoirs, and microscopic porosity, even in sealed systems.

Boiling creates vapour bubbles that compress under pedal pressure, reducing or eliminating braking force.

Modern stability and ABS systems require low-viscosity brake fluids to allow rapid fluid movement for precise electronic control.

Unopened brake fluid has a long shelf life if stored correctly. Once opened, it should be used promptly to avoid moisture contamination.

Since 1976 we’ve been manufacturing the most advanced brake fluids for the biggest brands in the world. As the leading private label manufacturing and packaging provider, we are dedicated to supporting your brand through specialist, bespoke solutions.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Speak to a Brake Fluid Specialist