ATE Blue fluid - not for use on public highway?

[Phateuk]

So, I've just dropped my car off to get the brake fluid changed to ATE blue and the garage have rung me saying there's a big notice on the container saying not for use on public roads - is this purely due to the colour? I wasn't aware of any other detrimental affects of it?

Also, when the car goes back to the dealer should I get it flushed out and replaced with normal stuff or will they not notice/care?

[Phateuk]

marshalla said:

Possibly a US regulatory problem : http://www.ate-na.com/www/download/ate_us_en/theme... ?

It's also a DOT4 spec. fluid which has a lower boiling point than DOT5.1 (which is compatible). My preference would be the 5.1


ETA - also seeing some info. online that the presence of the dye means it can't have passed DOT4 testing and that the dye has not been authorised for UK use at it may be an environmental hazard if it spills (e.g. poisoning water courses).

Edited by marshalla on Tuesday 21st October 10:27

I've just done some reading up -and it does seem related to US regulations rather than anything UK specific..

[Phateuk]

Henry Fiddleton said:

Yup, from what I have heard its US thing and something to do with the chemical that makes it blue!

Just be aware the Dot 4 type absorb moisture so need changing fairly regularly.

I use it, it good stuff.

I was under the impression Dot 4 is the "normal" type ? Isn't it the Dot 5.1 that needs to be changed more often?

[Phateuk]

PhillipM said:

Both dot 4 and dot 5.1 absorb moisture, Dot 5 is the silicone based stuff that doesn't.
And as many pointed out, super blue exceeds DOT5.1 temperature specifications.

And yes, the warning is purely because it is blue. Red tape everywhere these days.

Thanks - it's in the car now so hopefully should see an improvement on my next TD

[Phateuk]

Did my first track day with this fluid yesterday and it was amazing! Brake pedal stayed solid all day with some hard braking, last time out with OEM fluid the pedal went long after a few short sessions and never recovered for the rest of the day - with the blue stuff it felt like I could lap all day.

Such a great upgrade, only used about £7 worth to replace the old stuff as well so a total bargain!