Wondering if I can use DOT 5.1+?

https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevol...ets-sort1.html




https://bevo.mercedes-benz.com/bevol...ets-sort1.html
It was a few years ago.




It is the owners who want to cut the corners that make it complicated

Beware that we live in times when technology changes on monthly basis, so what was approved years ago, very often doesn't apply anymore.
The motor oil recommendation for my Bluetec changed 3 or 4 times in car 10 years of life.
So read the sheet before each service.




It is the owners who want to cut the corners that make it complicated

Beware that we live in times when technology changes on monthly basis, so what was approved years ago, very often doesn't apply anymore.
The motor oil recommendation for my Bluetec changed 3 or 4 times in car 10 years of life.
So read the sheet before each service.
I'll stay with what the manufacturer specs, thanks. Even $30/liter isn't much compared to the replacement cost of the pump.





Mixing fluids is never recommended, but sometimes it is allowed.
We had the topic about mixing coolants when MB switched from pee color to blue one.
Took me whole net search to track a letter from MB USA headquarters saying they are comparable.
Than again, why risk it cutting the corners for $5 savings?
When I have time - I order fluids on the net and usually MB fluids come cheaper than "cheap" stuff my local suppliers sell.
Than when I am in hurry, I just pay local MB dealer what they ask. How much hassle you are ready to take for $5 or even $10 savings?
It is the owners who want to cut the corners that make it complicated

Beware that we live in times when technology changes on monthly basis, so what was approved years ago, very often doesn't apply anymore.
The motor oil recommendation for my Bluetec changed 3 or 4 times in car 10 years of life.
So read the sheet before each service.
331 spec sheet isn't very helpful.
Shows only compatible with 0009890807 which is a standard 'Super" Dot 4 fluid.
There have been multiple revisions since then, with the latest PN# replacing the older ones is now a Dot 4 LV.
MB fluid isn't magically different than the rest; there are many good brake fluids like pentosin that are good alternatives; they are not 'lesser'.
MB doesn't make fluid, they outsource it from others.
Also with the latest part number being a Dot 4 LV, that proves my point that 5.1 is compatible; it's a superior spec with more stringent requirements.
Lastly, brake fluids 4, 4+ super, 4 LV, 5.1 are all formulated with the same substances, just different ratios.
The assumption that using one that's not MB labeled is going to blow up a system is incorrect.
There is no problem with using high quality alternatives.
Of course I'm not saying go buy walmart branded brake fluid or whatever but pentosin, ravenol, etc are good for these cars.
I'll stay with what the manufacturer specs, thanks. Even $30/liter isn't much compared to the replacement cost of the pump.
It would be impossible for them to tell since all compatible brake fluids are formulated with the same materials.
Last edited by Agent-A01; Mar 22, 2019 at 04:31 PM.




331 spec sheet isn't very helpful.
Shows only compatible with 0009890807 which is a standard 'Super" Dot 4 fluid.
There have been multiple revisions since then, with the latest PN# replacing the older ones is now a Dot 4 LV.
MB fluid isn't magically different than the rest; there are many good brake fluids like pentosin that are good alternatives; they are not 'lesser'.
MB doesn't make fluid, they outsource it from others.
Also with the latest part number being a Dot 4 LV, that proves my point that 5.1 is compatible; it's a superior spec with more stringent requirements.
Lastly, brake fluids 4, 4+ super, 4 LV, 5.1 are all formulated with the same substances, just different ratios.
The assumption that using one that's not MB labeled is going to blow up a system is incorrect.
There is no problem with using high quality alternatives.
Of course I'm not saying go buy walmart branded brake fluid or whatever but pentosin, ravenol, etc are good for these cars.
It would be impossible for them to tell since all compatible brake fluids are formulated with the same materials.
Is the mixing of the minor additives that affect the long term suitability.
That is why I was guessing that MB may have dropped the other brands, not that the fluid was inferior, or incompatible, just that for long term use they did not want mixed fluids.
This is a bigger issue with coolants, as the additives are for long term corrosion protection.
I assume that any mixture reverts to the shortest life.
The Best of Mercedes & AMG





That is what I have been using since.
Last edited by N_Jay; Apr 4, 2019 at 05:30 PM.
In addition, MB themselves, via sheet 331.0 that was updated on March 25th, 2019, indicated that any brake fluid with reference number 000 989 08 07 is acceptable. Only Pentosin Super DOT4 is cross-referenced to this number.
I looked everywhere but couldn't really find a clear answer. I know Mercedes says you have to use DOT 4+ but since DOT 5.1 is very similar to DOT 4+ I was just wondering if I can use that instead...5.1 is a few degrees higher when it comes to dry and wet boiling point.
Thanks
I have been running Penrite 5.1 fluid in my C250 for the last 3 years (120km) with no issues.






