Yes, brake fluid is toxic if swallowed or gets in the eyes. Wear gloves & eye protection when handling it. Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) if ingested.
Why Is Brake Fluid Dangerous?
Brake fluid, essential for your car’s braking system, is a hazardous material if not handled properly.
Its dangers originate from its chemical composition, designed for specific functions that can be harmful under unintended circumstances.
Here are some of the key reasons why brake fluid is dangerous:
- Toxicity
Most brake fluids contain ethylene glycol or diethylene glycol, chemicals also found in antifreeze.
These are toxic if ingested, causing nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, organ damage.
The sweet taste of brake fluid can be especially risky for children or pets who might mistake it for something harmless.
- Skin Irritation
Brake fluid can irritate the skin upon contact. Prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to dryness, redness, and even burns.
The irritation is caused by the hygroscopic nature of brake fluid, meaning it absorbs moisture from the skin, causing dryness and inflammation.
- Inhalation Hazards
Brake fluid fumes, particularly when heated, can irritate the respiratory system.
Symptoms may include coughing, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.
Inhaling large amounts can be dangerous, so working in a well-ventilated area is important when handling brake fluid.
- Eye Contact
Brake fluid can cause severe eye irritation and even damage your vision if it splashes into your eyes.
The irritation arises from the fluid’s ability to break down the eye’s natural tear film, leading to discomfort and potential injury.
- Car Paint
Spilled brake fluid can damage your car’s paint job. It strips away wax and clear coat layers, leaving behind a dull mark. Immediate cleaning with water is essential to minimize damage.
You can also learn about how quick brake fluid can affect your car paint:
What Should You Do If You Get Brake Fluid On You?
Acting quickly is essential if you get brake fluid on your skin.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to minimize risks and promote proper first aid:
- Remove Contaminated Clothing
Immediately take off any clothing saturated with brake fluid.
Do this in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
Be cautious not to spread the brake fluid to other areas of your skin while removing clothes.
- Flush With Water
Rinse the affected area with clean, lukewarm running water for at least 15 minutes.
This will dilute and remove the brake fluid from your skin’s surface.
- Wash With Soap (Optional)
After thoroughly rinsing with water, consider gently washing the area with mild soap and water.
However, prioritize rinsing with water first, as soap might not effectively remove all the brake fluid.
Pro Tip: “Avoid using harsh soaps, solvents, or abrasives, as they can further irritate the skin.”
- Dry And Monitor
Pat the area dry with a clean, soft cloth and monitor for any signs of irritation, such as redness, burning, or itching.
- Seek Medical Attention (if necessary)
If you experience any discomfort, burning sensation, or persistent irritation after rinsing, consult a doctor or poison control center immediately (the toll-free Poison Help line, 1-800-222-1222)
Medical attention is required if brake fluid gets into your eyes or if you suspect ingestion.
Here are some additional points to remember:
- Do not reuse contaminated clothing until it’s been thoroughly washed or professionally cleaned.
- Avoid using creams, ointments, or petroleum jelly on the affected area until a medical professional advises it. These might trap the brake fluid and worsen irritation.
Does Brake Fluid Catch On Fire?
Brake fluid is not as flammable as gasoline, but it can still ignite under certain conditions.
The key factor is the flash point, the minimum temperature at which a liquid produces enough vapor to ignite momentarily in the presence of an ignition source.
Brake fluid has a relatively high flash point, typically ranging from 230°F (110°C) to 420°F (215°C) depending on the DOT classification (e.g., DOT 3 or DOT 4).
This means it requires a significant amount of heat to vaporize and ignite.
While not readily flammable, brake fluid can become a fire hazard in extreme circumstances.
If a leak sprays brake fluid onto extremely hot engine components exceeding the flash point, like burnt exhaust manifolds, ignition is possible.
This scenario is more likely in older vehicles with less efficient cooling systems or during prolonged periods of heavy braking that generate significant heat.
Here’s a comparison to gasoline:
Gasoline has a much lower flash point, around -40°F (-40°C), making it extremely flammable at much lower temperatures.
How Do You Dispose Of Brake Fluid Safely?
Brake fluid is classified as hazardous waste due to its toxic and flammable properties.
Disposing of it improperly can harm the environment and human health.
Here’s what you need to know for safe and responsible disposal:
- Never Pour Brake fluid Down Drains Or With Household Waste
This contaminates water sources and poses a risk to sanitation workers.
Brake fluid is immiscible with water, meaning it won’t dissolve and can persist in the environment.
- Recycle When Possible
Some auto parts stores or recycling centers accept used brake fluid.
They have designated containers and processes to handle it safely.
Call ahead to inquire about their specific requirements and acceptance policies.
- Take It To A Hazardous Waste Facility
If recycling options are unavailable, locate a certified hazardous waste facility in your area.
These facilities are equipped to handle and dispose of brake fluid responsibly according to environmental regulations.
Here are some additional tips for safe disposal:
- Store Used Brake Fluid In A Sealed Container
Use the original container or a designated, leak-proof container to prevent spills and fumes from escaping. Label the container clearly as “Used Brake Fluid” for proper handling.
For more information on how you can properly handle your brake fluid, dispose, and recycle, watch the video below:
Key Takeaways
- Brake fluid is toxic and can cause serious health problems if ingested or inhaled. It can irritate your skin and eyes, and even damage your vision if it gets in your eyes. Wear gloves, and eye protection, and work in a ventilated area whenever handling brake fluid.
- Brake fluid can damage your car’s paint job. If you spill brake fluid on your car, clean it up immediately with water to minimize damage.
- Brake fluid is a hazardous waste and should not be disposed of with regular household trash. Recycle it at a participating auto parts store or recycling center, or take it to a certified hazardous waste facility for proper disposal. Never pour brake fluid down the drains.