DOT 3 Brake Fluid

I just bought a Golf TDI which was supposed to have new brake fluid at delivery. I'd say not so because it was dark brown. I changed it myself to DOT 3 and then read VW calls for DOT 4. Any problem?

Yes, you need to replace the DOT3 with DOT 4. DOT 3 doesn't have the moisture retention properties that 4 does, nor the proper temprature and other attributes.

If dot 3 was acceptible, VW would use it.

Is DOT3 still available your side of the pond? Bizarre. Everything is DOT4 over here...

All brake fluids are about equal in absorbing moisture. Dot 4 is a standard of higher dry/wet boiling points, 230C/155C respectively. The wet boiling point is a standard test of the fluid with 3.5% water absorbed.

If finding the correct fluid is a problem, check your local NAPA store--they sell it in several different sizes for a reasonable price.