Can I use regular automatic transmission fluid or power steering fluid as a substitute for brake fluid?
WBLOOD1
MEMBER
2000 MERCEDES BENZ ML430
85,000 MILES
Can I use regular automatic transmission fluid or power steering fluid as a substitute for brake fluid?
Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 7:44 PM
6 Replies
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
MECHANIC
109,874 POSTS
Refer to the owner's manual for your particular vehicle. Some can, others can not.
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Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 7:54 PM
WBLOOD1
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Really? That's your answer?
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Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 7:59 PM
ASEMASTER6371
MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS
I would not. If you use the wrong fluid, then you destroy all the rubber seals related to the brake system. Most cases, it takes dot 4, 5 or synthetic.
Do not add any other fluid till you find the correct needed. It may say it on the top of the cap of the master cylinder.
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type MB Brake Fluid (DOT 4+) this is what alldata suggests
Roy
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Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 8:12 PM
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
MECHANIC
109,874 POSTS
THANKS: I missed the ABS. DO NOT USE PS FLUID FOR BRAKE FLUID.
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Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 8:18 PM
ASEMASTER6371
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52,797 POSTS
No sweat Joe
Roy
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Sunday, June 3rd, 2012 AT 8:20 PM
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
MECHANIC
109,874 POSTS
I missed it and really appreciate you catching it. I've used ATF for PS fluid many times; however with this car, I would want to be careful.