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Checking Brake Fluid
Check brake fluid by looking at the brake fluid reservoir.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12.
The fluid level should be
above MIN. If it is not,
have your brake hydraulic
system checked to see
if there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake hydraulic system,
make sure the level is above the MIN but not over the
MAX mark.
What to Add
DOT-3 brake fluid is recommended. DOT-4 brake
fluid is also compatible with the vehicle’s brake
system parts. However, if DOT-4 fluid is used, it is
recommended that the brake hydraulic system be
flushed and refilled with new DOT-4 fluid at a regular
maintenance service every two years. See Additional
Required Services on page 6-6. Use new brake fluid
from a sealed container only. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area
around the cap before removing it. This helps keep
dirt from entering the reservoir.
{ CAUTION:
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic
system, the brakes might not work well. This could
cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
Notice:
• Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake
hydraulic system parts. For example, just a
few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine
oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage
brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they
will have to be replaced. Do not let someone
put in the wrong kind of fluid.
• If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle’s painted
surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged.
Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle.
If you do, wash it off immediately. See Washing
Your Vehicle on page 5-93.
5-35