Volvo 850 brake fluid Dot 3 or 4?

Post by **JimBee** » 07 Jun 2017, 16:44

I'm planning to replace the fluid in my 96 base (which also has a clutch). I don't want to power flush it, so will use the fill reservoir, helper will pump brake, open-close bleeder nipple method. I'm a little concerned about getting air in the clutch line, it's working fine now so don't want to mess that up.

Does the brand or dot rating matter?

EDIT:
I just found this discussion. Indicates Dot 4 was specified in owners manuals mid 90's.

Post by **misha** » 07 Jun 2017, 19:32

Dot 4 or dot 4+ max.

Post by **JimBee** » 07 Jun 2017, 21:30

The Dot 4 I saw on the shelf this evening was synthetic. Same for all Dot 4's? Does it matter?

Post by **abscate** » 08 Jun 2017, 01:24

No, all brake fluids are synthetic though.

What you don't want is DOt5 or silicone based fluid.

Post by **JimBee** » 09 Jun 2017, 14:04

I haven't added brake fluid since I bought the car 5 years ago, so I suppose it has Dot 3. Is that generally compatible with Dot 4 or do I need to be sure to do a complete flush?

Post by **abscate** » 09 Jun 2017, 20:00

It came with DOT 4, but I'm sure someone changed it

DOT 3 and 4 go together like third rear seats and radio codes

Post by **JimBee** » 09 Jun 2017, 21:16

Is that sort of like small sailboats and hi-fi systems?

Post by **abscate** » 10 Jun 2017, 02:43

Here's a thread on DOT 4 and DOT 4+

viewtopic.php?f=1&t=50795

'MY Lord,,I didn't even know there was a DOT 4 +. Why do they keep changing things? I like my world like 1955.

As long as no one moves the time slot for Matlock.....

Post by **misha** » 10 Jun 2017, 05:55

abscate wrote: ↑10 Jun 2017, 02:43 ...MY Lord,,I didn't even know there was a DOT 4 +

If you go back to post #2 you will find out.

Post by **abscate** » 10 Jun 2017, 08:03

I missed that Misha. It looks like a higher BP spec which probably is irrelevant for our cars