HS Code for Brake fluid

Brake fluid is classified under HS code 3819.00 because it is a prepared liquid for hydraulic transmission. The Harmonized System classifies miscellaneous chemical products under Chapter 38, and heading 3819 specifically addresses hydraulic brake fluids and other prepared liquids for hydraulic transmission. A critical factor for this classification is the petroleum oil content; to remain under 3819.00, the fluid must contain less than 70% by weight of petroleum oils or oils obtained from bituminous minerals. These fluids are typically formulated from glycol ethers, borate esters, or silicone-based polymers (such as DOT 5) to ensure high boiling points and low compressibility. The classification follows General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1, as the heading text specifically names hydraulic brake fluids. If the product were primarily petroleum-based (exceeding the 70% threshold), it would shift to Chapter 27. However, most modern automotive brake fluids are synthetic or semi-synthetic blends designed to meet safety standards like FMVSS 116, which aligns them with the chemical preparations of Chapter 38.

Products Included

• DOT 3 glycol-based brake fluid
• DOT 4 high-performance brake fluid
• DOT 5.1 non-silicone base hydraulic fluid
• DOT 5 silicone-based brake fluid
• Hydraulic clutch fluids
• Prepared hydraulic transmission fluids with <70% petroleum

Common Misclassification

Brake fluids are frequently misclassified under HS code 2710.19, which covers heavy petroleum oils. This occurs when the importer assumes all automotive lubricants and fluids are petroleum-derived. However, if the petroleum content is 70% or more, 2710.19 is correct; otherwise, 3819.00 must be used. Another common error is using 3403.19, which covers lubricating preparations. While brake fluids provide some lubrication, their primary function is power transmission, which is the defining characteristic of heading 3819.

FAQ

What is the HS code for brake fluid?

The HS code for brake fluid is 3819.00, provided it contains less than 70% petroleum oil by weight.

Does this code include transmission fluid?

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is usually classified under 2710.19 or 3403 depending on its composition, as it serves primarily as a lubricant and coolant, unlike the dedicated hydraulic pressure function of brake fluid.