Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that allows your braking system to build up pressure to activate the brake caliper or wheel cylinder and stop your vehicle. It is important to check your brake fluid level and condition regularly. Low brake fluid levels or leaks may cause problems with stopping your vehicle, and should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid a safety hazard. Over time, brake fluid may also absorb water and contaminants that make it less effective, and may cause your brake pedal to feel spongy. Check your vehicle's owner manual for your recommended brake fluid type and change intervals. At O'Reilly Auto Parts we carry DOT 3, 4, and 5.1 glycol-based backward compatible fluids, and DOT 5 silicone-based fluid (which is not backward compatible with most factory-installed glycol-based fluids). Ask our professional parts specialist to help you find the right brake fluid for your automobile, truck, motorcycle, ATV, UTV, or bicycle.