Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteYes—if your vehicle’s owner manual specifies Delco Supreme 11 or DOT 3 brake fluid, regular DOT 3 is an appropriate equivalent for topping up. Check the manual for your exact vehicle and system first: requirements vary, and the question does not identify the vehicle or whether the fluid is for brakes or a hydraulic clutch.
What Delco Supreme 11 means
GM manuals identify Delco Supreme 11 as DOT 3-equivalent fluid. For example, the 2006 Pontiac Solstice owner manual specifies “Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid” for its hydraulic brake and clutch systems. A 2009 Chevrolet Traverse manual gives the same DOT 3-equivalent specification for its hydraulic brakes. These examples establish the equivalence for those vehicles; your own manual is the authority for yours. See the 2009 Chevrolet Traverse owner manual.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Valvoline DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid, 32 oz | $10.73 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Valvoline DOT 3 & 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid, 32 oz | $10.18 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Prestone AS401 DOT 3 Synthetic Brake Fluid - 32 oz. | $10.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Valvoline DOT 3 & 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid, 12 oz | $5.79 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Lucas Oil 10826 Brake Fluid - 1 Quart | $9.62 | Buy on Amazon |
Check the required fluid before topping up
- Look in the owner manual’s recommended fluids or brake-fluid section for the exact vehicle and system.
- If it specifies DOT 3 or Delco Supreme 11, use clean, sealed DOT 3 fluid that meets that specification. ACDelco describes its DOT 3 brake fluid as recommended for vehicles requiring DOT 3 and suitable for disc and drum systems. ACDelco’s DOT 3 brake fluid information.
- If the manual specifies DOT 4, do not treat DOT 3 as a routine substitute. ACDelco says to add DOT 3 only if absolutely necessary, then flush and refill with the correct DOT 4 fluid once you reach a safe place. ACDelco Arabia’s brake-fluid FAQ.
Do not mix DOT 5 with DOT 3 or DOT 4
DOT 5 must not be mixed with DOT 3 or DOT 4. If you are unsure what is already in the system, verify the vehicle’s specification and consult a qualified technician rather than adding a different fluid type.
If the brake-fluid level is low
A low level can result from brake-pad or shoe wear, but a leak is another possible cause. If the level keeps falling, have the system inspected; topping it up does not identify or fix the cause. ACDelco discusses both wear and leaks as possible reasons for a falling level in its brake-fluid FAQ.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- High quality blend of polyethylene glycol ethers and additives
- Compatible with all brake system rubber components and other brake fluids
- Prevents seal hardening or softening
- Protects against rust and corrosion
- Provides excellent lubricity
Rank #4
- Ideal for hydraulic and disc brakes
- Mixes well with conventional fluids
- Low-moisture formula provides excellent vapor lock protection
Rank #3
- Provides an extra margin of safety in extreme braking conditions (packaging may vary)
- Mix of polyglycol ethers ensures hot brake-system operation will not create dangerous vapor
- Excellent for ABS, disc and drum brake systems
- Delivers braking power when needed by avoiding a spongy pedal
- Both wet and dry boiling points exceed the minimum government standards
Rank #2
- Mixes well with conventional fluids
- Low-moisture formula provides excellent vapor lock protection
- Ideal for hydraulic and disc brakes
#1 Best Overall
- Exceeds DOT 3 regulations: Formulated to meet or surpass DOT 3 requirements, ensuring consistent braking performance and dependable stopping power in all conditions
- Premium high boiling point: Helps prevent vapor lock and brake fade under extreme heat, maintaining safe and reliable braking even in demanding situations
- Full synthetic formula: Provides superior resistance to moisture absorption and corrosion, helping protect vital brake system components for long-lasting performance
- Superior protection and performance: Designed to deliver reliable braking under extreme temperatures while supporting the safety and efficiency of the braking system
- Recommended applications: Suitable for ABS, disc, and drum brake systems; surpasses SAE J1703, FMVSS 116, and ISO 4925 DOT 3 specifications
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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