Frugal Living at The Dollar Stretcher


Changing Brake Fluid

by Bob DeP. AskBob@stretcher.com

Bob,
My brake fluid is slightly low. My BMW 530i calls for DOT 4 fluid; thus far, I can only find DOT 3 What is the difference?
Fred W.

Fred,
As far as I am told, you don't want to go backwards in DOT number. If a system calls for DOT 3, you could use DOT 4 but not the other way around. DOT 4 should be available at any automotive parts store. I am also told that brake fluid should be changed every 2 years regardless. What color is the fluid that is currently there? Is it brownish or clear? If it is any color other than clear, then you need to change it. You see, brake fluid will absorb moisture. Then, as the fluid is passed through the system, it will corrode the metal in the working parts (i.e., the ABS pump, wheel calipers, lines, etc.).
Good Luck!
Drive Safely!
Bob, The Auto Answer Man


If you have a question for Bob send it to: . He's able to answer many of them personally and we'll include the best questions in future issues of The Dollar Stretcher.

Take the Next Step



Stay Connected with TDS





Subscribe to TDS Newsletters

Join over 250,000 other subscribers!

Surviving Tough Times
Dollar Stretcher Parents
Dollar Stretcher Tips
The Dollar Stretcher

(text-based)

Financial Independence
TDS Special Offers
The Computer Lady
Computer Lady Lessons
Healthy Foods


View the TDS privacy policy.













Money problems?
The Dollar Stretcher can help:

Afraid to lose your job?

Struggling with credit card debt?

Help for your mortgage?

Can't pay your debts?

Need some extra income?

Fighting bad credit?

What you need to know about bankruptcy?

Become money smart?

Trouble repaying student loans?





Get free money-saving articles in your inbox!

Sign up for our free weekly eNewsletter Surviving Tough Times.

Your Email:


Ask The Dollar Stretcher

Looking for an answer to a frugal living question? Click here to ask a
Dollar Stretcher Stretchpert!




Copyright 1996 - 2013 "The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." All rights reserved unless specifically noted.

Contact the Dollar Stretcher at:
Dollar Stretcher
PO Box 14160
Bradenton FL 34280
941-761-7805


"The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." does not assume responsibility for advice given. All advice should be weighed against your own abilities and circumstances and applied accordingly. It is up to the reader to determine if advice is safe and suitable for their own situation.






Dollar Stretcher Community

TDS Forums Forums TDS Blogs Blogs


Also In This Week's Issue

In The Dollar Stretcher Community

Reader Favorites