BrakesBrake FluidThe brake master cylinderreservoir is filled withDOT-3 brake fluid. SeeEngine CompartmentOverview on page 5-12 forthe location of the reservoir.There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level inthe reservoir might go down:• The brake fluid level goes down because of normalbrake lining wear. When new linings are installed,the fluid level goes back up.• A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system can alsocause a low fluid level. Have the brake hydraulicsystem fixed, since a leak means that sooneror later the brakes will not work well.Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does notcorrect a leak. If fluid is added when the linings are worn,there will be too much fluid when new brake linings areinstalled. Add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, onlywhen work is done on the brake hydraulic system.{ CAUTION:If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill onthe engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough.You or others could be burned, and the vehiclecould be damaged. Add brake fluid only whenwork is done on the brake hydraulic system.See “Checking Brake Fluid” in this section.When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brakewarning light comes on. See Brake System WarningLight on page 3-36.Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine whento check the brake fluid. See Scheduled Maintenanceon page 6-4.5-34
