262 Vehicle Care
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper
sequence to torque specifications. See
Capacities and Specifications 0 319.
Brake pads should be replaced as complete axle
sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer 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 may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with new,
approved replacement parts. If this is not done,
the brakes may not work properly. The braking
performance can change in many ways if the
wrong brake parts are installed or if parts are
improperly installed.
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with
manufacturer approved DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake
Fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Underhood Compartment Overview 0 259 for
the location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on a level surface,
the brake fluid level should be between the
minimum and maximum marks on the brake
fluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid
level in the reservoir may go down:
• Normal brake lining wear. When new linings
are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
• A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system.
Have the brake hydraulic system fixed. With
a leak, the brakes will not work well.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and
the area around the cap before removing it.
Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does
not correct a leak. If fluid is added when the
linings are worn, there will be too much fluid
when new brake linings are installed. Add or
remove fluid, as necessary, only when work is
done on the brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the
brake warning light comes on. See Brake
System Warning Light 0 95.
Brake fluid absorbs water over time which
degrades the effectiveness of the brake fluid.
Replace brake fluid at the specified intervals to
prevent increased stopping distance. See
Maintenance Schedule 0 314.
What to Add
Use only manufacturer approved DOT 4
Hydraulic Brake Fluid from a clean, sealed
container. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0 316.
{ Warning
The wrong or contaminated brake fluid could
result in damage to the brake system. This
could result in the loss of braking leading to a
injury or death. Always use the proper
manufacturer approved DOT 4 Hydraulic
Brake Fluid.
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