Brake fluid, a hydraulic fluid that is used in automobile brake systems, has a boiling point of over 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Since this is a very high boiling point as compared to volatile fluids such as gasoline, brake fluids are unlikely to turn into explosive fires. However, they are still inflammable, and can lead to brake fades, which can be dangerous if you’re driving aggressively.
The purpose of brake fluids is to transfer force from the brake pedal to the brakes themselves. When the brakes are applied, the fluid is forced under high pressure through a series of pipes and hoses to the brakes at each wheel.
Since steady brakes are essential components of driving, it’s important to keep the condition of brake fluids in check to avoid mishaps. This article will cover information regarding the inflammability of brake fluids and outline the potential reasons why brake fluids may overheat.
How Hot Can Brake Fluid Get?
Brake fluid can get as hot as 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Particularly in cases when excessive friction caused between the pads and brake discs converts into thermal energy, it leads to the brake fluids heating up. As brake fluid is an ethyl-glycol-based substance, it is inflammable, albeit not as much as volatile fluids.
Overheating of brake fluids manifests in the form of a spongy feeling when you press down on the pedals. This sponginess can lead to a difficulty in being able to pull over the car, which can be dangerous especially if you’re driving at a high speed.
Overheating of brake fluids does not lead to explosive fires in and of itself. However, it can cause damage to the braking system. For this reason, it is important to check the level and condition of the brake fluid regularly.
Does Brake Fluid Overheat?
Short answer: yes! When brake fluids overheat, you might find yourself struggling to push down on the brakes properly.
You might also notice some smells and smoke releasing from the brake pads, which is a common sign of brake fluids overheating. Moreover, the brakes may release a squeaking sound, which happens as a result of aggressive driving habits.
Your best course of action in any of such scenarios is to slow down your car, stop somewhere safe and let the brakes cool down. In the meanwhile, you can search for car repair shops nearby, call up a tow truck, and get your vehicle checked by a mechanic.
The worst case scenario is that if you do not slow your car down, the brakes may fail, which can lead to lethal accidents. Once the brake fluid has cooled, check the level and make sure there are no leaks. If everything looks alright, you should be able to continue on your way.
However, if you’re concerned about your brake fluid overheating again, it’s best to have your car checked by a professional mechanic. Prioritize safety and trust your intuition when you’re noticing anything fishy about your vehicle.
At What Temperature Does Brake Fluid Catch Fire?
Typically brake fluid gets hot at temperatures around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is not as volatile as gasoline (which can lead to explosions through a single spark) so it is unlikely to cause any lethal accidents. Brake fluid may add to an already existing fire, but cannot start a fire in and of itself.
The reason why brake fluid overheating is relatively safe is because it is enclosed within the brake system, protected from external heat sources. Heating of the brake fluid occurs as a result of the friction between the brake pads and brake discs.
To understand why brake fluids are unlikely to catch fire in most circumstances, we can have a look at its ‘flash point’, which is the temperature at which a substance can be ignited as a result of external heat sources.
Brake fluid has a flash point of 210-375 degrees Fahrenheit, which is substantially high as compared to gasoline’s flash point of -45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Being a toxic substance, brake fluid can cause the car’s paint to corrode, so it must be dealt with carefully while being disposed of. You shouldn’t dump it in open landfills by yourself since it can cause environmental pollution. It’s advisable to reach out to a waste handling facility to dispose of it correctly.
What Would Cause Brake Fluid to Get Hot?
Brake fluids can get hot because of the following reasons:
Aggressive Driving Habits
Pushing down on the brake pads too abruptly and harshly can lead to higher amounts of friction, which can cause brake fluids to get hot, if done repeatedly.
Some people have a tendency to ‘ride the brakes’ which idiomatically refers to when you’re not taking your feet off the brakes while driving. This can also lead to overheating of brake fluid.
Poorly Maintained Braking System Components
If the components of the braking system, such as the braking pads and discs, are worn out and poorly maintained, you’ll experience an overall difficulty in using the brakes.
Another possibility can be that you didn’t install the braking pads the correct way, leading to disruption in the entire braking system, and heating of the brake fluid.
All parts of the braking system work in unison, just like the human body. If there’s a major issue in one part or component, it will affect the entire system.
Low Quality Parts in the Braking System
Invest in good-quality braking pads, discs and rotors so that you will have to pay lesser visits to the car mechanic. It will pay off in the longer run and eliminate chances of the brake fluids overheating.
Is DOT 3 Flammable?
Being a glycol-ether-based fluid, yes, DOT 3 is flammable. It is made from a glycol base and can be either mineral-based or synthetic.
It is classified as a fluid with moderate flammability, meaning it will not ignite that easily. The flash point of DOT 3 is 230 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly lower than other categories of brake fluids.
To check the current price and availability of Brake Fluid, click here to view the selection on Amazon.
Is DOT 5.1 Flammable?
Yes. However, DOT 5.1 is not as flammable as DOT 3 which is glycol-based. This is because silicone-based brake fluids such as DOT 5.1 tend to have a higher flash point.
It’s important to note that all brake fluids, such as DOT 3, DOT 4 and DOT. 5.1 are flammable, and caution must be exercised while handling them.
Brake fluids may not be volatile, but you must be careful while dealing with them in environments where they may interact with other harmful substances, such as chlorine. Mixing the two can lead to a huge explosive fire as chlorine is a powerful oxidizing agent.
Final Thoughts
Brake fluid is a critical component of your car’s braking system. Because of it, the force from your foot on the brake pedal is transferred to the brakes themselves, providing the necessary stopping power.
However, brake fluid can also be combustible, especially at temperatures around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, which is why it’s very important to exercise caution whenever you notice any symptoms of the brake fluid overheating.
By taking precautionary measures, you can help ensure that you and your passengers stay safe on the road. Always remember one simple rule for driving: safety comes first!