Brake Fluid Tester

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Revision: This bulletin replaces bulletin Group 4, #1004, dated November 5, 2010.

"Recommended" was removed from the title, pricing was updated to $370, and "various retailers" was changed to "various retailers such as Amazon, Toolsource.com, & eautotools.com."

Vehicle Type: All Vehicles (USA Only)

Model Year: All

Concern: Determining brake fluid boiling point using approved method.

Work Procedure: The recommended interval for brake fluid replacement is two years. However, the condition of the fluid can be influenced by many factors, and as such "wears" just like other components of the vehicle.

If there are any questions regarding brake fluid condition, it should be checked against a minimal standard.

Different methods exist for testing brake fluid. The boiling method is the best testing method. This method complies with SAE J1703, ISO 4295 and the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 116.

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Alba Diagnostics manufactures the brake fluid tester that complies with the previously mentioned standards. The tester is branded under several different names. One of the more recognizable brands is OTC.

The OTC 3890 sells for around $370 US. It is available through various retailers such as Amazon, Toolsource.com, & eautotools.com.

A set of very simple graphic instruction is included with the tester.

The testing process only takes a few steps. Collect a brake fluid sample from the right rear caliper into the sampling cup.

NOTE: Sampling at the reservoir is not an accurate indication of brake fluid quality. Moisture in the fluid settles in the calipers)

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Connect the tester to a 12vdc power source (battery). Place the sampling end of the tester into the fluid sample and press the button to test. The display will look like this.

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Continue to hold the button down while the fluid is being heated. Wait for the result to be displayed.

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The tester automatically displays the minimum acceptable boiling points after the test result. Compare the test result with the minimum boiling point.

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There are several advantages to using the brake fluid tester:

Customers are happy to see solid data as the basis for service recommendations versus subjective opinions.
The data itself is enough to convince the customer of the importance of having the fluid flushed.
Increase in customer pay service work.

Courtesy of PORSCHE CARS NORTH AMERICA, INC.