The brake/clutch master cylinder
reservoir is filled with DOT 4 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 10-7 for the location of the reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down:
Do not top off the brake/clutch 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/clutch hydraulic system.
Warning
If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake/clutch hydraulic system.
Checking Brake Fluid
The brake/clutch fluid can be checked without taking off the cap by looking at the brake/clutch fluid reservoir.
The fluid level should be above MIN. If it is not, have the brake/ clutch hydraulic system checked to see if there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake/ clutch hydraulic system, make sure the level is above MIN but not over the MAX mark.
When the brake/clutch fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 5-15.
What to Add
Use only new DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed container. It is recommended that the brake/clutch hydraulic system be flushed and refilled with new DOT 4 fluid at a regular maintenance service every two years. See Maintenance Schedule on page 11-3 and Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12.
Always clean the brake/clutch fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
Warning
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake/clutch hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake/clutch fluid.
Caution
Driving on Snow or Ice
Drive carefully when there is snow or ice between the tires and the road, creating
less traction or grip.
Wet ice can occur at about 0°C (32° F) when freezing rain begins to fall, resulting
in even less traction. Avoid driving on wet ice or in freezing rain until roads
can be treated with sal ...
Tire Inspection
We recommend that the tires, including the spare tire, if the vehicle has one,
be inspected for signs of wear or damage at least once a month.
Replace the tire if:
The indicators at three or more places around the tire can be seen.
There is cord or fabric showing through the tire's rubb ...
Event Data Recorders
This vehicle is equipped with an event data recorder (EDR). The main purpose
of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as
an air bag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding
how a vehicle’s systems performed. The EDR is de ...