Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid used in hydraulic brake and hydraulic clutch applications in automobiles, motorcycles, light trucks. It is used to transfer force into pressure, and to amplify braking force. It works because liquids are not appreciably compressible. The three main types of brake fluid include:

DOT3:This is one of the most common types of brake fluid. It has a glycol base and a lower boiling point. It also can absorb water from the air. Most vehicles can use DOT3 brake fluid.

DOT4:DOT4 braking fluid is similar to DOT3, but with a higher boiling point. This makes it a more efficient fluid. It's also very common and can be used in a range of vehicles.

DOT5:When looking at DOT3 or DOT4 versus DOT5 brake fluid, the biggest difference is that DOT5 is a silicon-based fluid instead of glycol. It doesn't absorb water like the others and has the highest boiling point. It's not commonly used on road vehicles.