I have some ATI Super Blue brake fluid I bought in 2002 or 2003. The metal cans are still factory sealed (there's a plastic pull-tab in the spout) and have been sitting in my garage. Is this stuff still ok to use?

Thanks,

Alan

I would think it is. I think only way it could be bad is if water got in it.

I would trash it. I doubt their is any moisture in it but you would be surprised what moisture does to brake fluid. Moisture can drop the boiling point in fluid by 50% In my racing days we changed our fluid every race. Brakes not only over heat but the fluid can boil. In my experience boiling fluid is the number one cause of brake failure. Always buy the best fluid possible and change frequently.

I just did a disc brake conversion and their directions said very clearly
to use NEW brake fluid.There must be a good reason for this. Pete

I just did a disc brake conversion and their directions said very clearly
to use NEW brake fluid.There must be a good reason for this. Pete

Well I think that is because they dont want you to use USED brake fluid. His fluid is NOS. :D But seriously, if brake fluid can be used in a car for a period of years, why cant it stay sealed in a bottle for a period of years and still be usable? I suppose though, why not just play it safe and buy a new bottle, the stuff isnt too expensive. :beers:

I could write a book on this but someone else already has. Read your owners manual on any new car.
http://www.aa1car.com/library/bfluid.htm

I have three cans of this same fluid unopened in my garage. I do plan on using it in the next few years.

I made a typo. It's ATE Super Blue NOT ATI :clonk:

Not sure why I bought so much. I guess I figured I'd change my brake fluid more often. That hasn't happened :sad:. Maintenance is lagging big time.

The place I got it from still sells it for $12/quart, so I guess I'll order a few since all three of my vehicles need new fluid. Probably better to just play it safe and spend $30 instead of wondering if I'll run over a curb or through a stop sign if the fluid sitting on the shelf is water logged.

Thanks for the replies and for that link WAX-UM.

Sealed can, I would use it, once open fairly short shelf life

It should be OK in a metal can... plastic bottles allow fluid to absorb moisture through the bottle, but metal cans do not.

What Derek said.
Mike

If its factory sealed, it should be fine. If its been opened, trash it.

Several of you say it's ok. So, I'll use what I have that is still factory sealed.

Thanks for the replies!