What Are Brake Fluid Testers and Are They Worth It?

To keep the braking system in optimal condition, brake fluid should typically be replaced every two to three years. However, in some cases, brake fluid may degrade faster due to hard braking, leaks, or system maintenance. Therefore, it’s important to occasionally check the brake fluid. This is where a brake fluid tester comes in. This article will introduce what a brake fluid tester is and explain the different types available.

There are various types of brake fluid testers available on the market today. Here are some you might see:

Conductivity Test Pen:

It measures the conductivity of brake fluid to detect water content. It is easy to use and gives instant results. However, accuracy is limited because conductivity varies by brand and DOT rating.

Conductivity Brake Fluid Tester:

It uses a highly sensitive probe to accurately measure water content in the brake fluid. The result is displayed as a precise percentage (%) on a high-definition backlit screen.

Boiling Point Tester:

It heats the brake fluid sample to check its boiling point. A lower boiling point indicates high water content. This tester is more accurate but requires calibration according to manufacturer standards.

Brake Fluid Test Strips:

These strips detect copper content in the brake fluid. Dip the strip into the fluid, wait a few seconds, then match the color change to a chart to read the result.

A conductivity brake fluid tester determines the water content in brake fluid by measuring its electrical conductivity. Since water has a much higher conductivity than brake fluid, the more water present, the higher the overall conductivity.

Working Principle:

The tester uses a probe to contact the brake fluid sample. Its internal sensor measures the conductivity and makes an intelligent judgment based on preset algorithms and brake fluid types (such as DOT3, DOT4, DOT5.1). Some advanced models also feature temperature compensation to automatically correct the impact of ambient temperature on the test results.

Test Results:

The tester displays the result as a moisture percentage (%). Some products also include warning lights or sound alerts to help technicians quickly decide whether the brake fluid needs replacement.

Example – AUTOOL AS502 Brake Fluid Tester:

The AUTOOL AS502 is an intelligent conductivity brake fluid tester. It uses a highly sensitive probe combined with a temperature compensation system. It accurately measures the water content in various types of brake fluid like DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5.1. Real-time data is shown on a high-definition backlit screen. Compared to ordinary test pens, the AUTOOL AS502 offers higher accuracy, making it ideal for professional auto repair workshops.

• AUTOOL AS502 Car Brake Fluid Tester For Water Content Testing $29.90 – $245.90

Brake fluid testers are essential for vehicle safety and performance. Conductivity brake fluid testers, like the AUTOOL AS502, are accurate and easy to use. They are ideal for daily use in workshops. Upgrading to the brake fluid testers will improve your workshop’s efficiency and service quality, ensuring safe and reliable repairs for your customers.

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