I'm looking to change the brake fluid,  cap says dot3 but I can't find any toyota branded dot3, can dot4 or dot5.1 be used, has dot3 been used because of the Japanese climate just briefly reading about it dot3 has a longer life, lower boiling point, doesn't absorb as much moisture. Any thoughts.

thanks

I think the DOT spec means you don't need to use Toyota brand you can use any DOT3. I would certainly not devaite, however, from the DOT3 specified.

I agree with Geralt, as long as it meets DOT 3 you should be OK.

Depending on the age of your Alphard, DOT 4 may not have been in existence when it was originally sold. DOT 4 or 5.1 can be used instead of, and even mixed with, DOT 3. 

 

I really wouldn't worry about buying Toyota branded brake oil. Just go with any reputable brand. Unlike a lot of the other lubricants/ gear oils in cars there isn't any specific manufacturer requirements for brake fluid so there isn't the same anxiety about an aftermarket product possibly not have the special secret ingredient. 

 

One thing to definitely not do is use DOT 5. It is silicone based rather than mineral as DOT 3,4 and 5.1 are. 

Edited February 24, 20241 yr by smurf

Thanks Guys.

The Vellfire is gen2 2011, couple of responses from toyota:

 

‐----------- Thanks for your message. We no longer offer Dot 3 brake fluid. Dot 4 is the improved version an is fully interchangeable. Dot 4 is fully compatible with DOT 2 and 3 and will not cause any issues. To prevent reduced braking performance the brake fluid should be replaced every 2 -3 years.

7 hours ago, Philllx said:

Thanks Guys.

The Vellfire is gen2 2011, couple of responses from toyota:

 

‐----------- Thanks for your message. We no longer offer Dot 3 brake fluid. Dot 4 is the improved version an is fully interchangeable. Dot 4 is fully compatible with DOT 2 and 3 and will not cause any issues. To prevent reduced braking performance the brake fluid should be replaced every 2 -3 years.

You live and learn! Thank you for the info.