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What can I use as a substitute for brake fluid?
Help! I just realized that my car is dangerously low on brake fluid. I ordered some online, but it won’t be here until tomorrow. What can I use as a substitute in the meantime?
Heather Bernhard · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Oh no! I’m sorry to hear that your brake fluid is so critically low. Luckily, I can help you figure out a brake fluid substitute while you wait on the real thing.
If your vehicle is low on brake fluid, the safest option is not to drive until you replace it. I understand, however, that there may be an emergency in which you have to leave the house.
In that instance, you can use a solution of soap and water as a short-term substitute for brake fluid. Not only is it easy to make, but research has also proven that it doesn’t corrode or rust the brake system.
To make the solution, follow these steps:
- Remove the old brake fluid
- Mix a solution of 40 percent dish detergent and 60 percent water
- Add the solution just like you would add normal brake fluid
- Use your brakes sparingly
If you have a brake fluid emergency while you’re out on the road and don’t have access to soap, it is acceptable to use just radiator water.
In either case, try to be light on the brakes, and stop by slowing the engine when possible: if the brakes get too hot, the water can boil.
Once you get your new brake fluid, flush out the system before adding it. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, a mechanic can help.
You can’t stop emergencies from happening, but you can be prepared! Keep your car ready for unexpected situations by storing an emergency kit in your trunk and by having the best
car insurance
coverage possible. If you’d rather leave the hard work of gathering quotes to someone else, use
Jerry
. Jerry will find you quotes from the nation’s top providers. They can even help cancel your old policy once you’ve made your pick.MORE: How long do brakes last?
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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