Whether you drive a personal car or a commercial one, it is important to keep it in the best shape. One of the best ways you can do that is by ensuring that you use superior quality brake fluid.
This will not only guarantee your safety but also that of pedestrians on the road. In this review, our aim is to lead you to the best DOT 5 brake fluid.
Of course, this is understandable because DOT 5 brake fluids do not absorb water and do not corrode hence giving them a special advantage over other brake fluids.
If you are interested in the same, you may want to keep it here as we review some top choices.
Table of Contents
Best Dot 5 Brake Fluid – Comparison Table
The following comparison table will come in handy if you do not have the time to go through the entire review or you could not be bothered to do it.
| Rank | Product Name | Brand | Weight |
| 1 | Maxima Racing USA 24 Pack DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid | Maxima Racing USA | 30.4 pounds |
| 2 | EBC-Brakes Dot 5 Silicone BF005 Brake Fluid | EBC-Brakes | – |
| 3 | Niteo 12 Pack Motor Medic DOT 5 Brake Fluid | Niteo | 13.4 ounces |
| 4 | Silicone DOT 5 Brake Fluid by Bel-Ray | Bel-Ray | 13.9 ounces |
| 5 | Johnsen’s Silicone DOT-5 Brake Fluid | Johnsen’s | 14 ounces |
| 6 | Silicone Dot 5 Brake Fluid by Bel-Ray | Bel-Ray | – |
| 7 | Twisted Choppers Wilwood Five Dot 5 Silicone Brake Fluid | Twisted Choppers | 1 pounds |
| 8 | N-Style 99450-B355W Accessories DOT 5 Brake Fluid | N-Style | 1 pounds |
| 9 | AGS Heavy Duty Vehicles Silicone DOT 5 High Temperature Brake Fluid | AGS | 12.5 ounces |
| 10 | Bel Ray Lubricants Dot 5 Brake Fluid | Bel-Ray | 12.8 ounces |
| 11 | Maxima Racing USA High Performance 80-82916 DOT 5.1 Brake Fluid | Maxima | 1.1 pounds |
| 12 | Victoriou DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid | Victoriou | 32 Ounces |
Buying Guide – How to Pick the Top DOT 5 Brake Fluid
As you begin your search for the best brake fluid, you want to consider several factors that will ensure that you get value for your money.
These factors include:
Corrosion Resistance
Areas like calipers, wheel cylinders, and ABS control valves are prone to corrosion. In that regard, you want to pick a brake fluid that repels the same.
You want to keep in mind that some brake fluids have higher corrosion levels than others. Since we are covering DOT 5 brake fluids here, it is important to note that they are silicone-based hence less corrosive.
Fluid Viscosity
Ideally, the brake fluid you pick should retain its viscosity under different operating temperatures. This guarantees that your car’s anti-lock braking system, traction, and stability control function correctly.
To that effect, you want to purchase a fluid whose viscosity is manufacturer recommended. DOT 5 brake fluids generally have a lower viscosity over a broad temperature range.
System Compatibility
Different brake fluids are designed for different brake systems. That said; some brake fluids are created to be used for various braking systems.
We want to forewarn you here that not all brake fluids will cut it when it comes to compatibility. Ensure that the brake fluid you pick is compatible with your car for optimal functioning and prevention of brake failure.
Replacement Frequency
Perhaps you are not aware of this but most brake fluids come with a lifespan. This means that you will need to replace yours after some time.
Now, DOT 5 brake fluids last long but that does not mean that they will not require a replacement. As your brake fluid deteriorates, it affects your braking system negatively and could even lead to brake failure.
Check manufacturer instructions to find out after how long you need to change yours.
Product Packaging
As you shop for your brake fluid, you need to check the packaging as well. Why? You may ask. Well, this is because your fluid should not be exposed to the environment as this can change its chemical structure and ultimately reduce its effectiveness.
As such, you do not want the packaging to be susceptible to any dents or leaks.
Product Size
Just before you part with your money, you want to consider how much brake fluid you need for your car. This is because some fluids are packaged in tiny bottles that may not be enough.
Still, you do not want to buy too much fluid because as we have previously mentioned, brake fluid does degrade so it will be a waste.
The best thing would be to buy just enough fluid for single use.
You are probably going to have a hard time picking the right brake fluid for your car but it does not have to be that way.
How so? Simply because we have rounded up some of the best-rated options to make the selection process easier for you.
Top 12 Best DOT 5 Brake Fluid
1. Maxima Racing 80-81916-24PK DOT 5 Brake Fluid
Granted, we are talking about DOT 5 brake fluids but this particular one exceeds those specifications. It is therefore not difficult to see why we picked it as the first one on our list.
Not only will it cool your brakes down rapidly, but it also provides great performance.
What We Liked About It
Since it has great braking qualities and a remarkably high boiling point, this product is perfect for race cars.
Other than that, this fluid features an advanced formulation to resist oxidation and corrosion. It is compatible with natural rubbers, EPDM, and SBR and we love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users complained that the product arrived with a broken seal. We feel that the manufacturer should have done better with the packaging.
Pros
- Sheer
- High boiling point
- Exceeds DOT 5 specifications
Cons
- Inadequate packaging
2. EBC DOT-5 Silicone Brake Fluid
This is another silicone-based product so you can expect several advantages and superior performance from it.
Simply put, this brake fluid is corrosion resistant and comes with a high boiling point making it perfect for any vehicle with a hydraulic braking system.
What We Liked About It
Perhaps you have an old model car that you rarely drive and want to use it on short notice. Worry not because this brake fluid will make it perfectly functional within minutes.
However, what we loved most about this product is that it is suitable for all kinds of vehicles whether personal or commercial as long as they have hydraulic brakes.
What Could Have Been Better
The cost of this brake fluid is a bit on the higher side and while this may not be a bad thing for some people, it is a purchasing deterrent for others.
We feel that the manufacturer should have priced it reasonably to make it accessible to many people.
Pros
- High performance
- Can withstand high temperatures
- Will not damage paintwork
Cons
- Costly
3. Niteo M4011/12-12PK DOT 5 Motor Medic Brake Fluid
When you think of the best brake fluids in the market, you have to consider the Niteo Motor Medic. This is because it does not absorb water and neither will it corrode your braking system.
What We Liked About It
This brake fluid meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and what that means is that your safety is guaranteed while using it.
We love that it delivers sterling performance and will not corrode any of your painted surfaces. Besides regardless of how low or high the temperatures are, the preservation of your braking system is guaranteed with this product.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this brake fluid does not blend well with other brake fluids. We feel that the manufacturer should have made this fluid compatible to make it more versatile.
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant
- Safe to use
- Does not absorb water
Cons
- Does not blend with other brake fluids
4. Bel-Ray 99450-B355W DOT 5 Brake Fluid
From the Bel-Ray stable comes this Silicone DOT 5 Brake Fluid and we can comfortably say that it is among the best in the market.
Not only does it surpass the highest DOT 5 specifications, but it also comes in a sheer color that will make changing your brake fluid easier.
What We Liked About It
This brake fluid comes with many amazing features but one of the most notable ones is that it will not affect any of your plastic or painted surfaces negatively.
We love that it has a high boiling point as well to guarantee great performance under both high and low temperatures.
What Could Have Been Better
Users have reported that they received broken containers that were leaking. This could be because of improper packaging and we feel that the manufacturer should have taken care of this before dispatching the product.
Pros
- High boiling point
- Rust-resistant
- Sheer
Cons
- Inadequate packaging
5. Johnsen’s 7012-6 DOT-5 Brake Fluid
This brake fluid is silicone-based making it ideal for both drum and disc brakes. Of course, this makes it the perfect choice for all kinds of vehicles.
It has a high boiling point that makes its overall performance better and we believe you will love that.
What We Liked About It
One of the best features when it comes to this product is that it comes with an advanced silicone formula to provide your brake assembly with the right amount of smoothness.
Another great thing about this fluid is that it is non-hygroscopic and therefore absorbs very little water. We love this about it because it makes the fluid lasts longer without deteriorating.
You will also love that this is one of the most affordable options on this list that delivers great performance hence giving you value for money.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have complained that their orders arrived with missing caps and broken seals. The manufacturer should have used better packaging to avoid this.
Pros
- Non-hygroscopic
- Value for money
- High boiling point
Cons
- Poor packaging
6. Bel-Ray Dot 5 Silicone Brake Fluid
If you are looking for an effective brake fluid that exceeds DOT 5 specifications, you have to consider this product from Bel-Ray.
This brake fluid is of such great quality that it guarantees superior and consistent performance.
What We Liked About It
Whether you are operating under low or high temperatures, this brake fluid guarantees great braking performance over a long period.
We love that this fluid works efficiently for disc and drum braking systems as well as hydraulic clutches.
This product is safe to use on your braking system as it will not corrode any parts or adversely affect any plastic or painted surfaces.
What Could Have Been Better
Regrettably, this product is not compatible with mineral-based fluids. The manufacturer should have made the formula compatible to make the fluid more versatile.
Pros
- Premium quality
- Non-hygroscopic
- Corrosion-resistant
Cons
- Incompatible with mineral-based fluids
7. Wilwood Five Silicone Dot 5 Brake Fluid
With this highly refined brake fluid, you get to preserve the dependability and look of your show car, classic vehicle, or even motorcycle.
Its non-hygroscopic formula hinders moisture absorption and ultimately prevents corrosion.
What We Liked About It
This brake fluid from Wilwood offers great lubrication for all surfaces and brake systems as well as long life so you do not have to worry about wastage.
However, the most appealing thing about this product is that it meets and surpasses DOT 5 specifications hence delivering sterling performance.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, this product leaks and we feel that this is something that the
manufacturer should have taken care of during the production process.
Pros
- Non-hygroscopic
- Corrosion-resistant
- Superior performance
Cons
- Tends to leak
8. N-Style 99450-B355W Accessories
Although N-Style is not the most popular brand on this list, they did well with this brake fluid. Its silicone formulation guarantees that you get the most out of this product in terms of performance and that is the goal, right?
What We Liked About It
One of the most appealing things about this product is that it is easy to use and will hardly present any issues while using it.
Moreover, it lasts longer than most products in the same category and does not cost as much. This means that you get value for your money and we love that.
What Could Have Been Better
Some users have reported that this product absorbs quite a bit of water, which is not good. We feel that the manufacturer should have used more silicone during production to counter this.
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- Value for money
Cons
- Tends to absorb water
9. AGS DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid
If your car has a modern braking system, you could use this high-temperature specially formulated fluid to service it.
It delivers such great performance that it is recommended for Japanese, European, and domestic cars.
What We Liked About It
When we talk of versatility, we mean that this brake fluid is ideal for trailers, heavy-duty vehicles, and even motorbikes.
Nonetheless, what we loved most about this product is that it seldom absorbs water.
What Could Have Been Better
According to some users, there seems to a bit of corrosion on some parts after using this fluid. The manufacturer should have checked on this before launching the product.
Pros
- Non-hygroscopic
- Versatile
- High boiling point
Cons
- High boiling point
10. Bel Ray 99450-B355W / 97700-BT355J DOT 5 BRK FL
This is yet another fluid that exceeds DOT 5 specifications so you can rely on it to deliver superior performance.
What We Liked About It
Even under the most demanding temperatures whether high or low, this brake fuel from Bel-Ray always delivers.
Moving on swiftly, it blends well with all brake fluids that meet DOT 5 specifications and we love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
Unfortunately, this product is not ideal for systems that use mineral-based fluids. The manufacturer should have made the formula compatible with the same to reach a wider customer base.
Pros
- Does not absorb moisture
- Will not corrode
- Exceeds DOT 5 specifications
Cons
- Incompatible with mineral-based systems
Read More: Top Quality Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid
11. Maxima Racing USA DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid (80-81916)
If you have taken the time to go through several reviews, you may have realized that this particular fluid is synonymous with classic cars.
Well, the reason for this is that it is brake system friendly. It has a stable boiling point hence delivers great results all the time.
What We Liked About It
This DOT 5 brake will not tarnish or destroy your paintwork making it a favorite among drivers. Another great feature of this brake fluid is that it is versatile and can even be used on high-quality motorbikes.
However, what we loved most about it is that it is non-hygroscopic and will therefore prevent your parts from corroding.
What Could Have Been Better
This product is not compatible with other hydraulic fluids and can therefore damage your braking system if mixed.
The manufacturer should have stated this in the product description.
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant
- Stable boiling point
- Durable
Cons
- Incompatible with other hydraulic fluids
12. DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid
If you are in the market for a brake fluid that features a dependable formula and delivers great performance, you have to consider this one.
It works perfectly for the clutch assembly and ensures that your entire braking system runs perfectly.
What We Liked About It
This fluid is designed to maintain your braking system in top condition and improve its general efficiency.
Another great thing about this product is that it is ideal for painted surfaces and will not corrode any metal parts. We love that about it.
What Could Have Been Better
There have been complaints that this product arrived leaking by some users. The manufacturer should have packaged it better to avoid this.
Pros
- Anti-corrosive
- Surpasses DOT 5 specifications
- Easy to use
Cons
- Inadequate packaging
Best Dot 5 Brake Fluid FAQ:
If you have any questions regarding the best DOT 5 brake fluid, you may want to go through the ones we have answered below. They may give you a clearer insight.
Q: How often should I change my DOT 5 brake fluid?
A: Ideally, this should be done every 18 months or 60,000 km. Most brake fluid manufacturers recommend this.
Q: Does changing my brake fluid improve my car’s braking performance?
A: Yes, it does. However, it is important to note that doing that will not solve any braking issues.
Our Preferred DOT 5 Brake Fluid
Our top pick on this list has to be the Maxima Racing 80-81916-24PK DOT 5 Brake Fluid. Not only does this fluid surpass DOT 5 specifications, but it also cools down your brakes faster.
It also comes with a high boiling point and outstanding braking qualities hence making it ideal for race cars.
However, what we loved most about this product is that it resists corrosion and will not damage any metallic parts on your braking system.
Conclusion
We cannot overemphasize the importance of brake fluid because without it, you put your life and that of other road users in jeopardy.
If you were having a hard time identifying the best DOT 5 brake fluid for your car, we believe you are now equipped with all the information you need to make the right choice. Don’t you?