Have you ever wondered what the difference between transmission and brake fluid is? These two essential fluids are used in cars but have very different purposes.
In this post, I will compare and contrast transmission fluid and brake fluid and discuss their importance to the proper functioning of a car.
Transmission fluid lubricates and protects the gears and components in a car’s transmission. On the other hand, brake fluid is used to transmit hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers, which in turn apply the brakes to the wheels.
In this post, I will discuss the following points:
- The purpose of transmission fluid and brake fluid
- The different types of transmission fluid and brake fluid
- The frequency with which transmission fluid and brake fluid should be changed
- The importance of checking the levels of transmission fluid and brake fluid regularly
Contents
Transmission vs Brake Fluid Overview
| Feature | Transmission Fluid | Brake Fluid |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Lubricates and protects the transmission gears and components | Transmits hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers to stop the car |
| Color | Reddish-brown or pink | Amber or clear |
| Smell | Sweet or slightly fruity | Odorless or slightly sweet |
| Consistency | Thick and syrupy | Thin and watery |
| Change interval | Every 30,000 to 60,000 miles | Every 2 years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first |
| Cost | $20 to $50 | $10 to $30 |
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is a lubricant formulated for use in a vehicle’s transmission. It is typically a red or pink color and has a distinct smell. It is made from a combination of base oils, additives, and other chemical compounds that give it the properties needed to lubricate and cool the transmission’s internal parts.
It is formulated to withstand high temperatures and pressure within the transmission. Transmission fluid can be synthetic or mineral-based, synthetic fluids tend to have better thermal stability, and longer life spans than mineral-based fluids.
It can also be categorized based on its viscosity. Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is thicker than manual transmission fluid (MTF), and it’s essential to use the suitable fluid for your specific make and transmission model.
Transmission fluid’s main job is to lubricate the transmission’s mechanical components, which include gears, bearings, and shafts. It also keeps the gearbox cool and protects it from wear and tear. Transmission fluid also aids in transmission cleaning by transporting dirt and debris away from the transmission.
Checking the transmission fluid level is relatively easy. First, the vehicle should be running and on level ground. Find the gearbox dipstick, which is near the engine. Remove the dipstick and wipe it down with a cloth or paper towel. Replace the dipstick and take it out to check the fluid level. The fluid tier on the dipstick should be between the “Full” and “Add” markings.
The recommended interval for changing gearbox fluid varies based on the vehicle and the manufacturer’s instructions. Transmission fluid should be modified every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or every 2 to 4 years. However, always contact your vehicle’s owner’s handbook or a professional technician for the suggested change interval.
Brake Fluid
The hydraulic fluid that distributes force from the brake pedal to the brake pads in a vehicle’s braking system is known as brake fluid. When you step on the brake pedal, brake fluid streams down the fuel lines and into the brake calipers, pressing the brake pads towards the rotors and bringing the wheels to a halt.
The two most prevalent types of brake fluid are DOT 3 and DOT 4. Both are glycol-based and work with the majority of braking systems. The dry boiling point of DOT 3 braking fluid is 205°C (401°F), while the wet boiling point is 140°C (284°F). The dry boiling point of DOT 4 braking fluid is 230°C (446°F), while the wet boiling point is 155°C (311°F).
The brake fluid’s principal function is to convey force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers, which subsequently push against the rotors to slow or stop the vehicle. Braking fluid also lubricates and protects the moving parts of the brake system from wear and strain.
Reviewing the brake fluid level is easy. Locate the brake fluid reservoir, usually found in the engine compartment. The reservoir will have a clear plastic cover with a dipstick or a level indicator. Inspect the fluid level in the cistern to ensure it is within the “Minimal level” and “Optimum” markings.
The recommended interval for replacing brake fluid varies according to vehicle and manufacturer specifications. Most automakers recommend replacing the brake fluid every 2-3 years or 45,000 to 50,000 miles. However, always contact your vehicle’s owner’s handbook or a professional technician for your vehicle’s suggested change interval.
Additionally, suppose you experience any symptoms of low or dirty brake fluid, such as a spongy brake pedal or reduced braking performance. In that situation, you should get your brake fluid checked and replaced as soon as possible.
Differences Between Transmission Fluid and Brake Fluid
Composition and Properties
Transmission and brake fluids are used in vehicles but have different compositions and properties. Transmission fluid is a lubricant formulated particularly for use in automatic gearboxes. It is usually reddish and has a unique odor.
On the other hand, brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in a vehicle’s braking system. It is typically a clear or yellowish color and may have a distinct smell.
Applications
Vehicles with automatic gearboxes need transmission fluid, whereas those with braking systems need brake fluid. Transmission fluid lubricates, cools, and protects the transmission’s moving parts, whereas brake fluid transmits the force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers to slow or stop the vehicle.
Importance Of Using The Right Fluid
It is imperative to use the right fluid for the right application. Using the wrong fluid can cause severe damage to the transmission or brake system, leading to costly repairs or even accidents. Always check the owner’s handbook or a professional mechanic to guarantee you use suitable fluid for your car.
Additionally, it is essential to use only high-quality fluids that meet or exceed the specifications required by the manufacturer. Low-quality fluids can lead to poor performance and increased wear and tear on the vehicle’s components.
Also, Read:
- Transmission Fluid Gushing Out: Causes & Solutions
- Transmission Fluid Leak when Parked on An Incline
- Transmission Fluid Leaking From U Joint
- Transmission vs Differential Fluid
- Is a Transmission Fluid Leak Covered Under Warranty
- Can You Add Transmission Fluid While the Car Is Off
- Water in Transmission Fluid: Symptoms & Solutions
- How Long Should I Drive Before Checking the Transmission Fluid
- Choosing the Right Fluid: Transmission Fluid vs Coolant
- How to Flush Transmission Fluid from The Radiator
- Is There a Warning Light for Low Transmission Fluid
- Problems After Transmission Fluid Change: Causes & Solutions
- Mistakenly Put Transmission Fluid in The Oil: Is There Any Fix
- Can You Lose Transmission Fluid Without A Leak
FAQs
Can you use transmission fluid as brake fluid?
No, transmission fluid and brake fluid are not interchangeable and should not be used as a substitute for each other.
What Can I Substitute for Brake Fluid?
There is no suitable substitute for brake fluid. Using only the type of brake fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer is important.
Will power steering fluid work as brake fluid?
No, power steering fluid should not be used as a substitute for brake fluid. Power steering and brake fluid are two completely different types of hydraulic fluids with different properties and purposes.
Can You Use Transmission Fluid for Brake Fluid?
No, you can not use transmission fluid for brake fluid. While both transmission fluid and brake fluid are hydraulic fluids, they are formulated differently to meet the demands of their respective systems.
What happens if you put brake fluid in your transmission?
Using brake fluid in the transmission can lead to poor lubrication, which can cause the transmission to wear more quickly and lead to failure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, transmission fluid and brake fluid are two essential fluids that play a crucial role in properly functioning your vehicle. Transmission fluid is used with automatic transmissions to cool and lubricate the transmission’s moving parts. Brake fluid is directed in a vehicle’s braking system to convey force from the brake pedal to the brake calipers.
Both fluids are essential for the proper functioning of your vehicle and should be checked and replaced regularly. Regular maintenance and fluid change may keep your car operating smoothly and save money on future issues.
Car owners are recommended to consult their vehicle’s owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for the recommended change interval for their specific vehicle and use only high-quality fluids that meet or exceed the specifications required by the manufacturer.
