Checking Brake FluidYou can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap.Look at the brake fluidreservoir. The fluid levelshould be above MIN.If it is not, have yourbrake system checkedto 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 theMAX mark.What to AddWhen you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brakefluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed containeronly. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricantson page 6-12.Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and thearea around the cap before removing it. This will helpkeep dirt from entering the reservoir.{CAUTION:With the wrong kind of fluid in your brakesystem, your brakes may not work well, or theymay not even work at all. This could cause acrash. Always use the proper brake fluid.Notice:• Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brakesystem parts. For example, just a few drops ofmineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in yourbrake system can damage brake system parts sobadly that they will have to be replaced. Do notlet someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.• If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s paintedsurfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Becareful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle.If you do, wash it off immediately. See WashingYour Vehicle on page 5-90.5-40
