I just had a brake fluid flush yesterday and I told them to put DOT4 brake fluid when the cap of the fluid resevoir in the engine compartment says to put DOT3 only. My car is at 105,000miles I bought it used a 1.5 years ago at 98,000 miles. It is a 4 speed transmission automatic. I think it has ABS and antilock breaks. It has never been in any serious accident other than me T-boning someone going 15 or less miles per hour in the front-right part of my bumper. When I bought it, I got ripped-off because it needed new struts, bulbs, transmission flush, tires, and rear drum brakes. I got OES spectrum struts put on when i got it. I have new Yokohama Avid Touring-S tires on all three except 2 older Michelins Destiny's, 1 spare and 1 right-rear. The brakes were at 80% a week ago, so they are still good. I live in a desert climate in the southwestern United States. Elevation 2400 feet above sea level. Roads are usually flat since we are in a valley but some parts are hilly. Temperatures go up to 115 degrees farenheight in the summer and 30 degrees farenheight in the winter. We're in monsoon season right now so it will rain some more. Humidity during summer half is 15-70%. It's usually sunny clear blue skys.
It was not until after they did the service that I read a little online and realized I should have listened to the label. Some say it is okay because there is not much difference between DOT3 and DOT4. Others say to follow manufacturers recommendation and that DOT4 will damage the seals or something and absorb less water.
I told them to put DOT4 because I tend to drive rough but not race track and because I thought i would get better performance. The mechanic will not change it to DOT3 for free. How long will I last using DOT4? What can I do without spending more money? What are my options? They put Pyroil DOT4.
It was not until after they did the service that I read a little online and realized I should have listened to the label. Some say it is okay because there is not much difference between DOT3 and DOT4. Others say to follow manufacturers recommendation and that DOT4 will damage the seals or something and absorb less water.
I told them to put DOT4 because I tend to drive rough but not race track and because I thought i would get better performance. The mechanic will not change it to DOT3 for free. How long will I last using DOT4? What can I do without spending more money? What are my options? They put Pyroil DOT4.