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 5-69.
Brake Wear
This vehicle has disc brakes. Disc
brake pads have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake
pads are worn and new pads are
needed. The sound can come
and go or be heard all the time the
vehicle is moving, except when
applying the brake pedal firmly.
{ CAUTION
The brake wear warning sound
means that soon the brakes will
not work well. That could lead to
an accident. When the brake wear
warning sound is heard, have the
vehicle serviced.
Notice: Continuing to drive with
worn-out brake pads could
result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates
can cause a brake squeal when
the brakes are first applied or lightly
applied. This does not mean
something is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are
necessary to help prevent
brake pulsation. When tires are
rotated, inspect brake pads for wear
and evenly tighten wheel nuts in
the proper sequence to torque
specifications in Capacities and
Specifications on page 5-81.
Brake linings should always be
replaced as complete axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer/retailer if the brake
pedal does not return to normal
height, or if there is a rapid increase
in pedal travel. This could be a
sign that brake service might
be required.
5-26 Service and Appearance Care