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Dot 3 vs Dot 4 Brake Fluid

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Maintaining a vehicle’s braking system is very much important for safety purposes. Choosing the right brake fluid is crucial. The difference between DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid can impact the performance and safety of your car. Let’s know the differences between these two types of brake fluids.

What is Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is an essential component of your vehicle’s braking system. It handles transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake components. It operates under extreme conditions, including high temperatures and pressures. To ensure effective stopping power. Choosing the appropriate brake fluid can influence your vehicle’s braking performance and longevity.

Can You Mix Dot 3 and Dot 4 Brake Fluid?

Yes, you can mix DOT 4 and DOT 3 brake fluids. Both types of brake fluids are glycol-based and compatible with each other to some extent.

Fluid Performance

DOT 4 brake fluid typically has a higher boiling point than DOT 3, which makes it more suitable for high-performance and heavy-duty applications. If you mix DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluids, the resulting mixture will have properties somewhere in between. It might still be acceptable for normal driving conditions but could have a lower boiling point than pure DOT 4 fluid.

Boiling Point

The brake fluid’s boiling point is crucial because it affects the brake system’s performance under high-temperature conditions. Mixing DOT 3 and DOT 4 could result in a fluid with a lower boiling point than desired, potentially affecting brake performance during intense braking situations.

Manufacturer Recommendations

It’s essential to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for brake fluid recommendations. Some vehicles might specifically require DOT 4 fluid due to their design and performance characteristics. Mixing fluids might not meet these specifications.

Flush vs Top-Up

If you’re considering topping up the brake fluid, mixing small amounts of DOT 3 and DOT 4 in an emergency might be acceptable. However, if you’re planning a brake fluid change or flush, it’s recommended to use one type of fluid consistently to maintain the fluid’s properties.

DOT 3 Brake Fluid: The Pros and Cons

DOT 3 brake fluid is a glycol-based formula that is commonly used in many vehicles. DOT 3 brake fluid offers several advantages that make it a popular choice:

Pros:

  • Wide Availability: DOT 3 brake fluid is available and is found at most automotive stores. Making it convenient for regular maintenance.
  • Cost-Effective: It is generally less expensive compared to other brake fluid types. which can be appealing to budget-conscious vehicle owners.
  • Compatibility: DOT 3 is compatible with most conventional braking systems. Making it a suitable choice for older vehicles.

Cons:

  • Lower Boiling Point: One of the limitations of DOT 3 brake fluid is its lower boiling point. As compared to other formulations. This can lead to brake fluid boiling under high heat. Causing brake fade and reduced performance.
  • Hygroscopic Nature: DOT 3 brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This can lead to decreased effectiveness and potential corrosion within the braking system.

DOT 4 Brake Fluid: Pros and Cons

DOT 4 brake fluid is another widely used option that offers certain benefits over DOT 3 fluid:

Pros:

  • Higher Boiling Point: DOT 4 brake fluid has a higher boiling point, making it more suitable for high-performance and heavy-duty applications. It is less likely to boil and lead to brake fade under extreme conditions.
  • Enhanced Moisture Resistance: Compared to DOT 3, DOT 4 brake fluid is less hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture at a slower rate. This can prolong the life of your braking system components.

Cons:

  • Cost and Availability: DOT 4 brake fluid can be slightly more expensive than DOT 3, and while it is widely available, it might not be as commonly stocked as DOT 3.

Choosing the Right Brake Fluid for Your Vehicle

The decision between DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid depends on various factors, including your vehicle’s make and model, driving conditions, and intended usage.

  • Daily Commuting: For standard daily commuting and moderate driving, DOT 3 brake fluid can provide adequate performance and cost-effectiveness.
  • Towing and Heavy Loads: If you frequently tow heavy loads or engage in intense driving conditions, DOT 4 brake fluid’s higher boiling point and moisture resistance can offer improved safety and performance.
  • Performance Vehicles: Enthusiasts and owners of performance vehicles should opt for DOT 4 brake fluid due to its ability to withstand the demands of aggressive driving and track use.

Maintenance Tips: Ensuring Brake Fluid Longevity

Regardless of whether you choose DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing your braking system’s lifespan. Follow these tips to ensure optimal brake fluid performance:

  • Regular Inspections: Check your vehicle’s brake fluid level regularly and look for any signs of contamination or moisture buildup.
  • Flush Intervals: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid flush intervals to prevent moisture accumulation and maintain consistent braking performance.
  • Use OEM Recommendations: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or manufacturer’s recommendations to determine the most suitable brake fluid type for your specific model.

Boiling Point Separated Into Dry and Wet Boiling Points

Both DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids have dry and wet boiling points. The dry boiling point refers to the boiling point of the fresh, unused brake fluid, while the wet boiling point considers the fluid’s boiling point after it has absorbed some moisture from the air over time. Moisture absorption can lower the fluid’s boiling point, which is why regular brake fluid replacement is recommended.

Conclusion

The choice between DOT 3 and DOT 4 Brake Fluid depends on your vehicle’s requirements and usage. While DOT 3 is budget-friendly and compatible with most systems, DOT 4 offers higher performance and moisture resistance. Assess your driving needs and consult your vehicle’s manufacturer to make the best choice for your safety and braking system longevity.

You can also contact Urban Lube for brake fluid replacement in Calgary.

Brake Drag – Causes, Effects, and Corrective Actions

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Brakes are a crucial component of a vehicle that allows the driver to slow the speed and stop the car whenever required. Brake drag, also known as dragging brakes, is one of the most common problems associated with the brakes.

What is Brake Drag?

Brake drag refers to a problem with the braking system where the brake pads fail to disengage properly even when the brake pedal is released. In dragging brakes, the brakes remain applied partially even when no pressure is put on the brake pedal.

Brake Drag Causes

There may be many reasons behind brake drag. Here are the most common brake drag causes.

1. The Master Cylinder

One of the most common brake drag causes is that the brake pedal is too tightly adjusted, resulting in blockage of the master cylinder vent port. This blockage causes excessive pressure build-up on the braking system, resulting in brake drag.

There needs to be a slight gap between the master cylinder and push rod for the brakes to function optimally. A corroded or worn out master cylinder may require excessive pedal effort to apply the brakes, resulting in dragging brakes.

2. Pedal Return Springs

Worn out or broken pedal return springs are also one of the brake drag causes. As the pedal return springs become rusty or wear out completely, the drum brake systems cause brake dragging.

3. Excessive Brake Fluid in the Master Cylinder

The displacement property of the brake fluid helps the brake function. When brakes are applied, the pistons push fluid out of the master cylinder. When the brakes are released, the pistons get pulled back, allowing the fluid to re-enter the master cylinder. For this system to function correctly there needs to be sufficient empty space in the master cylinder. However, excessive brake fluid blocks this space, which is insufficient for the brakes to release. As the brake fluid heats up when driving, it expands, resulting in less free space in the master cylinder.

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Some of the other brake drag causes include:

  • Brake hose restrictions
  • Overheating of the brake fluid
  • Corroded or jammed calliper piston
  • Corroded bushings or pins of the calliper piston
  • Frozen brake cables
  • Distorted backing plates
  • Sticky wheel cylinder
  • Clogged master cylinder by-pass port by contaminants

Corrective Actions to Treat Brake Drag and Prevent Re-occurrence

  • Regular servicing and cleaning of the brakes
  • Using a brake lubricant
  • Cleaning the brakes with a quality cleaner
  • Readjusting the brakes to ensure they are not too tight
  • Installing new pedal return springs
  • Clearing the blockage in the master cylinder
  • Replacing the distorted backing plates with new ones

Brake Drag Symptoms

  • Difficulty in steering
  • Brake pedal remains depressed
  • Sluggish feeling while driving
  • Vehicle becomes highly unresponsive
  • Car pulling to one side of the road
  • Car moves ahead as if it does not have any power

If you notice any brake drag symptoms, you need to get it inspected and repaired immediately from Urban Lube.

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5 Warning Signs You Need Brake Repair

5 Warning Signs You Need Brake Repair

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Car owners hardly pay attention to preventing maintenance by ignoring regular brake servicing. When they realize that there is a problem with the brakes, it is already too late. If you are a car owner, here are the top 5 warning signs that indicate something is wrong with the brakes and that there is probably a need for brake repair or replacement.

1. Brake Warning Lights

If the brake warning light or ABS (Anti Braking System) light is flashing on the dashboard, it means there is something wrong with the braking system of your car. It may also flash due to low brake fluid or a leaky fluid reservoir. If you see the brake warning light flash on the dashboard, it makes sense to stop the car immediately at a safe place and call for brake servicing assistance from a professional.

2. Unusual Noises

When applying brakes, if you hear screeching, grinding, or squealing noise, it is probably due to the worn-out braking pads. The heat and friction may cause the brake pads to wear out. The screeching noise should be regarded as an indication that it is time for brake pads to change.

3. Brake Pedal Problems

Another warning sign of the brake dying is if the brake pedal feels too spongy (loose) or hard to press.

Either one of these issues may indicate the following:

  • Air has entered the brake line and brake fluid.
  • The master cylinder seal is broken.
  • Low brake fluid.

Any of these problems may be catastrophic in nature. Hence, they need to be fixed immediately by a professional technician during brake servicing.

Even if the brake pedal has lost a little bit of its stiffness, brake repair is essential to avoid any major problems at a later stage.

4. Vibrations During Braking

When you apply the brakes, if the steering wheel, brake pedal, or the entire car starts vibrating, it indicates a dying brake. The vibration of the brake pedal may be due to worn-out brake pads, warped brake rotors, and stuck brake callipers.

Failing brake callipers will cause the steering wheel to vibrate when brakes are applied. Out-of-balance brake rotors may be the possible reason behind the vibration of the brake pedal and the entire car. To avoid one or any of these issues, it is necessary to get brake servicing done periodically (at least twice a year).

5. A Car Being Pulled to One Side

When applying brakes, if the car is getting pulled to one side, it may possibly be due to one or a combination of these reasons.

  • Low tire pressure
  • Unbalanced brakes
  • Worn out brake pad
  • Stuck brake calliper
  • Low brake fluid

To avoid any of these issues, it is best to go for brake servicing regularly and fix the problems before they get worse.

When the brakes of your car are in good condition, you can enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and safe drive on the road. Share the challenges that you are experiencing with the brakes, and get brake servicing in Regina done on a regular basis.

Book an appointment today at Urban Lube for an oil change, brake service, wiper change, tire change and much more.

Engine Warning Light – Common Causes and Solutions

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For any vehicle owner or driver, the check engine light activation is a dreadful feeling, especially when the car is running.

Common Causes of The Engine Warning Light Turning On

There may be many reasons why your car’s check engine light is on. Here are some of them.

1. Loose Fuel Cap

  • A common reason why the check engine warning light is displayed is that the fuel cap is loose or open.
  • Incorrect air pressure within the fuel tank may trigger the engine warning light on.
  • If the fuel cap is loose, ensure that you close it tightly.
  • In case the cap is damaged, or the rubber has worn off, it is time for a replacement.

2. Faulty Oxygen Sensor

  • The role of an oxygen sensor is to measure the levels of unburned oxygen in the car’s exhaust.
  • The data is sent to the electronic control unit (ECU), which then regulates the ratio of fuel and air in the engine.
  • In case of a faulty or failed sensor, the vehicle could burn more fuel than normal.
  • A defective or damaged O2 sensor could damage other components of the vehicle as well.
  • For this reason, the engine warning light turns on if there is a problem with the oxygen sensor.
  • A solution to this issue would be to get the faulty O2 sensor replaced by a new one.

3. Damaged Spark Plugs

  • Damaged or faulty spark plugs may also cause the engine warning light to turn on.
  • Spark plugs are small, but important components of the vehicle, responsible for igniting the mixture of gasoline and air in the combustion chamber.
  • Spark plugs are those electric components that do not require replacement every time.
  • However, if it has been a long time before they were replaced, or the odometer reading displays 100,000 miles, it is definitely time for you to get them replaced.

4. Problem With the Catalytic Converter

  • The catalytic converter is a part of the vehicle’s exhaust system, which converts harmful and toxic emissions into less harmful gases.
  • A problem with the catalytic converter can reduce the vehicle’s performance, result in lower mileage, and emission of sulphur-like (rotten-egg) smell from the engine.
  • The engine warning light may be displayed due to a fault in the catalytic converter.
  • A minor fault in the catalytic converter can be repaired.
  • However, if the catalytic converter has malfunctioned, it will need a replacement, which is quite expensive.

5. Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor

  • The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine to ensure that the air/fuel mixture is in the right proportion.
  • A faulty mass airflow sensor can trigger the engine warning light on.
  • If the mass airflow sensor stops working completely, replacing it is costly.

Be it an engine warning light or any other problem with your vehicle, Urban Lube is there to help you. Urban Lube specializes in offering a wide range of services such as battery boost, tire replacement, oil change, and roadside assistance to inspect issues in your car that flashes engine warning light.

Contact Urban Lube today for any help or assistance with your vehicle.

What Does It Mean When Your Brakes Feel Soft

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When it comes to driving cars, most Canadians tend to focus on acceleration, speed, and how fast a car is able to move. However, driving a car is not merely about speed. Stopping a car from a higher speed is equally important. Being a driver, you know how it is supposed to feel when you hit the brakes.

If you are having a problem with the brakes, stopping your car will require much more effort and time. If your vehicle is suffering from the problem of spongy (soft) brakes, it is time to address the issue right away without any delay. Spongy brakes are not just irritating while driving, they are dangerous, too.

Here are the Top 3 Causes for Spongy Brakes

Old or Low Brake Fluid

  • The brake fluid converts the force you apply to the brake pedal to pressure that causes the brakes to bring the car to a halt. This makes regular brake fluid changes
  • Brake fluid plays a crucial role in making the braking system function properly.
  • It lasts for a long time. However, it is not something that will last forever.
  • Brake fluid lasts for the service duration from 25,000 to 30,000 miles. However, it can last for more than 100,000 miles as well provided there is no leakage.
  • Moisture damages the braking system, thus resulting in spongier brakes.
  • Hence, if there is a low brake fluid level or leakage, it is time for you to get a brake fluid change.

Presence of Air in the Braking System

  • Air in the braking system is one of the most common causes of spongy brakes.
  • You need to find out how the air got into the braking system.
  • It may be due to a leakage somewhere or probably due to low brake fluid.
  • If you have had some repair work done on your braking system that might be a cause as well.
  • The presence of air in the braking system results in pressure imbalance which can cause the vehicle to take longer to stop.
  • Getting it repaired and an immediate brake fluid change can be the right steps to take.

Damaged Brake Line

  • The brake line can become brittle due to the rust from road salt and moisture present on the road.
  • Corrosion can result in holes in the brake line causing the brake fluid to leak and create a need for frequent brake fluid change.
  • Leakage of brake fluid results in reduced levels, which causes the hydrostatic pressure to become less.
  • The brake lines become weak, thus causing the brakes to become spongy.
  • Brake lines do not have any protection against corrosion.
  • The longer the rust and corrosion take place, the higher the chances are of brake fluid being lost from the system.
  • Brake line damage also causes air to enter the braking system.

If you are looking to get a brake fluid change done, Urban Lube is the best place to do it. In addition to brake fluid changes, Urban Lube offers other services as well, such as mobile oil changes, windshield wiper change, seasonal tire change services, battery boosters, and more.

Book an appointment now!

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How Do You Know When Wiper Blades Need Replacing?

How to Solve the Problem of Warped Brake Rotors

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Do you find your vehicle or its steering wheel shaking or vibrating frequently when you apply brakes while driving? Worn out brake rotors are most likely to be the cause of this. Just like you focus on transmission oil change, engine oil change, and mobile battery replacement to keep the vehicle running seamlessly, brake rotors are a key component of your vehicle that cannot be overlooked.

What are Brake Rotors?

  • Brake rotors are flat metallic discs that you can easily see behind the wheels of your vehicle.
  • They are popularly known as brake discs.
  • Brake rotors along with brake pads form the main components of your vehicle’s braking system.
  • Applying brakes to your car is a lot more than just pressing the brake pedal with your foot.
  • When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads clamp down the rotors that prevent the wheels from moving ahead and your car stops. This mechanism happens every time when you apply the brakes.

What is Wrapped Brake Rotors?

  • Wrapped brake rotors mean uneven brake rotor surface, which happens over time.

What are the possible reasons for warped brake rotors?

  • Applying brakes frequently, especially at high speeds
  • Exposure to moisture and humidity
  • Friction
  • Excessive heat generation
  • Bad quality of brake pads
  • Build-up of gases

Which Signs Indicate that Your Vehicle has Warped Brake Rotors?

  • Increase in braking time
  • Squeaking noise while applying brakes
  • Excessive vibrations in the steering wheel and brake pedal
  • Indicator warning light turning on

How to Fix the Problem of Warped Rotors of Your Vehicle?

In order to fix the issue of warped brake rotors on your vehicle, you have two options: Machine them or replace them.

1. Machining the brake rotors

Machining can be performed if brake rotors are:

  • Warped due to excessive heat
  • Worn out due to damaged brake pads
  • Damaged because of pitting corrosion or rust

Process

  • It involves resurfacing the brake rotors.
  • Machining rotors removes some portion of metal from their surface.
  • Machining makes the surface of the rotors smooth and even again.
  • It involves the use of a lathe to make the surface of the rotors flat and level.
  • The machining process can only be done if the rotors are sufficiently thick to be resurfaced.
  • If the minimum recommended thickness after resurfacing the rotors cannot be maintained, you need to replace the rotors immediately.
  • Even after machining, it is possible that the brake rotors can go back to their warped form due to residual stress.

2. Replacing the Brake Rotors

You need to go in for the replacement of brake rotors in the following cases:

  • If the rotors are not in the condition of being resurfaced.
  • If the rotors become extremely thin after resurfacing and do not match the recommended thickness given by your vehicle manufacturer.

Installing a new set of brake rotors ensures complete safety on the road while driving.

If your vehicle requires the replacement of brake rotors, no better place to get it done than Urban Lube.

Urban Lube specializes in the following services in and around Calgary in Canada.

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