Which Brake Fluid To Use?

[Off_Timing]

We have 2000 LX with 120K Kms, 3.8L engine.

My ABS light is coming on every once in a while after my mechanic did a rear brake job. I want to top off my brake fluid, it's just slightly below full level.

I was at the local parts store and found different DOT3 brake fluids, now I dunno which one to get. The ones I found from Prestone says :
DOT3 (for Ford),
DOT3 Synthetic,
DOT3 Synthetic for ABS.

The labels don't explain what the differences are.

The store's generic brand just say DOT3.

The brake fluid in the van now is still OEM. I didn't think Ford used synthetic brake fluid, did they?

So, which one should I get??

Thanks.

[MagicRat]

The generic DOT 3 fluid should be fine.

If the fluid is still original after 9-10 years, all the old fluid should be flushed or bled out.

Brake fluid is hydroscopic (it attracts moisture). Eventually, it becomes contaminated with moisture which lowers its boiling point and promotes rusting of the hydraulic system from the inside. Both siturations are safety concerns and may affect braking performance.

Therefore, all brake fluid (except DOT5) needs to be changed every few years.

BTW do not use DOT5 fluid. It's somewhat specialized and supposedly does not work well with ABS systems.

[wiswind]

ALL brake fluid is "synthetic".
You need a DOT 3 or 4, DOT 5 is NOT compatible with the DOT 3/4 fluid.
Buy a new bottle......do NOT use some bottle that was opened some time ago and has been lurking around the garage....as it may have absorbed moisture.
It is good to bleed some fluid out at each wheel every other year......particularly the front disk brakes.
You will likely see that it is a dark color.....new fluid is practically clear.

I have had issues with air leaking around the threads of the bleeder screw.
What I have done is to remove the bleeder screw and wrap some teflon tape onto the threads of the bleeder screw.....just a layer is enough.
This will prevent the air leaking around the threads when you loosen the screw.......just 1 little air bubble with give you spongy brake pedal.

Fresh brake fluid prevents the brake system from rusting from the inside.....and also prevents that moisture from boiling under hard braking......giving you soft pedal or even no brakes.