Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Refer to the "Maintenance Schedule" for the proper
maintenance intervals.
| WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and
possibly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or
riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. You would not have your full
braking capacity in an emergency. |
Fluid Level Check - Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level of the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under the hood service, or immediately
if the brake system warning lamp indicates system
failure.
The brake master cylinder has a plastic reservoir. On the
outboard side of the reservoir, there is a "MAX" mark
and a "MIN" mark. The fluid level must be kept within
these two dots. Do not add fluid above the MAX mark,
because leakage may occur at the cap.
With disc brakes, the fluid level can be expected to fall as
the brake linings wear. However, an unexpected drop in
fluid level may be caused by a leak and a system check
should be conducted.
Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in
"Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information.
WARNING!
- Use only manufacturer's recommended brake
fluid. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, And Genuine
Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further
information. Using the wrong type of brake fluid
can severely damage your brake system and/or
impair its performance. The proper type of brake
fluid for your vehicle is also identified on the
original factory installed hydraulic master cylinder
reservoir.
- To avoid contamination from foreign matter or
moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has
been in a tightly closed container. Keep the master
cylinder reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake
fluid in a open container absorbs moisture from the
air resulting in a lower boiling point. This may cause it to boil
unexpectedly during hard or prolonged
braking, resulting in sudden brake failure. This could result in a collision.
- Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in
spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing
the brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also
damage painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be
taken to avoid its contact with these surfaces.
- Do not allow petroleum based fluid to contaminate
the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be
damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure. This could result in a collision.
|
Front/Rear Axle Fluid
For normal service, periodic fluid level checks are not
required. When the vehicle is serviced for other reasons
the exterior surfaces of the axle assembly should be inspected. If gear oil
leakage is suspected inspect the
fluid level. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further information.
Front Axle Fluid Level Check
The front axle oil level needs to be no lower than 1/8 in
(3 mm) below the bottom of the fill hole.
The front axle fill and drain plugs should be tightened to
22 to 29 ft lbs (30 to 40 N·m).
| CAUTION!
Do not overtighten the plugs as it could damage them
and cause them to leak. |
Rear Axle Fluid Level Check
The rear axle oil level needs to be no lower than 1/8 in
(3 mm) below the bottom of the fill hole.
The rear axle fill and drain plugs should be tightened to
22 to 29 ft lbs (30 to 40 N·m).
| CAUTION!
Do not overtighten the plugs as it could damage them
and cause them to leak. |
Selection Of Lubricant
Use only the manufacturer's recommended fluid. Refer
to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in "Maintaining
Your Vehicle" for further information.
