Checking Your Brake Fluid Level

*VERY EASY*

Brake fluid is one of the most important fluids in your car. Without it, or even with an inadequate amount of it, your car will not stop. Having sufficient brake fluid is vital to your driving safety. Checking the brake fluid level is easy and should be done every two weeks; as a matter of convenience, it can be done when checking the oil level. Use this procedure:

  1. Park the vehicle on level ground with the engine OFF, the parking brake engaged, and the transmission in PARK (for automatic) or REVERSE (manual). Lift the hood. Use your owner's manual to identify the location of the master cylinder reservoir. It is usually on the driver's (left) side of the engine compartment in front of steering wheel and power brake booster.
  2. Wipe any dirt from the top and side exterior surfaces before opening the reservoir (if necessary) or reading the fluid level.
  3. If your master cylinder reservoir is made of clear plastic, the brake fluid level can be viewed from the outside. This type of reservoir is common on most newer cars. The fluid level must never fall below the "MIN" mark. If the level is below the higher "MAX" mark, remove the screw cap cover and slowly add enough brake fluid to bring it up to the "MAX" level.

    CLEAR MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR

    Immediately replace the reservoir cap firmly to prevent absorption of moisture in the brake fluid.
  4. If your master cylinder is metal and has bail cover, use a screwdriver to pop open the bail wire. This type of reservoir is common to most older cars.

    METAL MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR
    Remove the reservoir cover gently and observe the level of brake fluid against the inside top edge of the reservoir. The fluid level should be about 1/4" from the reservoir top if not otherwise marked. If it is not, slowly add enough brake fluid to achieve this level. Wipe the rubber membrane on the inside of the reservoir cover. Do not allow any engine dirt or grease to fall into the reservoir. Grease mixed with brake fluid will distort rubber components and seals and may cause brake failure. Replace the reservoir cover immediately and use a screwdriver to snap the wire bail in a closed position.
  5. Tighten the brake fluid bottle cap firmly after filling your reservoir. Use the brake fluid recommended in your owner's manual or an equivalent substitute. Be sure the substitute brake fluid has the correct DOT rating otherwise your brake system could be damaged. Close the hood and test the brakes.

Notice that your brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir will gradually fall as the disc brake pads wear. This is because the brake caliper pistons reposition themselves at rest closer to the brake rotor. Therefore, the brake lines can hold a little more fluid. If the brake fluid level falls noticeably between inspections, have a professional automotive technician examine the brake system for a malfunction or leak.

It is generally not necessary to flush the brake system and replace the brake fluid on a regular basis. However, if your brake fluid becomes darkened or discolored, have it drained and replaced. This work should be performed by a professional automotive technician. Removal and replacement of brake fluid requires the utmost care or the brakes will not function properly.


OPEN THE HOOD


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