Brake/Clutch DOT4 fluid... OK to use after 3 years sat in garage?

For the price, I'd just buy new. Not worth the chance.

Hi all,

Unsurprisingly enough, I had over 2.5Litres left. I left this in the garage. The lid was screwed tightly on but of course the silver foil/paper disc has been removed.

I now have a VW Golf MKIV estate that I would like to change the brake/clutch fluid on.

Now can I use the DOT4 fluid thats been stored in my garage undisturbed for 3 years or must I use a new fresh bottle of DOT4 fluid?

Looking forward to your replies,

Stephen.

Buy new. And my tip for mk4 golf bleeding is after the calipers are done bleed the 2 bleed screws on the master cyclinder! you will not know how long it took me to figure that out hehe

You can, but you shouldn't.

I should add that you could always test it, but the tester costs more than fresh fluid.

Keep it by for paint stripper.

it is a good weedkiller.

Brake fluid is very sensitive to moisture, I think if I was taking the time to do the job I'd buy new as well.

My mountain bike has hydraulic brakes and despite being totally sealed, the y some how manage to absorb water to the extent that the brakes lock on. I have to undo the bleed nipple and drain some fluid out. My theory is that the damp causes the fluid to expand and there is no automatic adjustment a s in a car system.