my son put in steering fluid instead of brake fluid. I found out two weeks later when peddle slipping. flushed all the system twice and it ran for a month, now no brake action. peddle to the floor and barely stops. replaced master cylinder and power booster. don't think caliper replacement would do any good. checked no oil leak. what to do next, any suggestion....Please help.

2004 Dakota, Auto, 3.7L, 2WD

 

Everything needs to be replaced, except for the steel lines. All the rubber brake hoses, the calipers, wheel cylinders, hydraulic control unit (pump and valves), proportioning valve, everything. If it has rubber in it, replace it.

The power booster wouldn't be affected, it doesn't contact brake fluid at all.

Change everything else. There is no way around it.

 

I didn't realize that power steering fluid was that much different. dang. Costly "oops".

 

Brake fluid is alcohol based, PS fluid is oil based. It will damage the seals.

 

gotcha

 

Thanks a lot, calipers ,wheel cylinders and P.valve replaced. ok now, I hope to stay lucky. couldn't find control unit in Dubai yet.

Appreciate the valuable info.

 

Don't forget the flexible hoses to each front wheel and the rear!

 

I've had to fix a truck that somebody did that to once. It wasn't pretty.