Step 2:
Open the bonnet
Release the bonnet with the lever inside the car.
Move the bonnet catch under the hood for final release.
Now, lift the bonnet and secure it with the prop rod.
Step 3:
Find the brake fluid reservoir
Look for a small, semi-transparent reservoir on the driver's side. It's attached to the brake master cylinder which is a small, metal block found toward the back of the engine.
Find the plastic or rubber lid on top and look for printed instructions.
Step 4:
Clean reservoir lid
A SAFETY WARNING !
Dirt can contaminate the fluid and cause a brake malfunction.
Use the rag to clean any dirt on the reservoir before opening it.
Clean the lid and if necessary, make instructions legible.
Step 5:
Work out the brake fluid grade
Read the instructions printed on the cap, to work out what DOT grade you should be using. The instructions may also tell you to use fluid from a sealed container only.
Use brake fluid with the correct DOT grade, as indicated by the manufacturer.
SAFETY WARNING !
Do not mix different grades unless it says you can.
Do not mix DOT 3 or DOT 4 with DOT 5, as this will cause brake failure.
Check your manual if there is no information on the lid.
Don't carry on if you can't work out the brake fluid grade.
Step 6:
Check the fluid level
Most newer car models are equipped with transparent reservoirs.
Check the fluid level through the clear plastic.
Find the minimum/maximum level marks on the reservoir.
Always keep the level between the maximum and minimum fill marks
It's normal for the fluid level to gradually lower as the brake pads wear off.
ANOTHER SAFETY WARNING !
If your brake master cylinder is empty do not carry on.
The same goes for your brake pedal - if it goes all the way to the floor, don't finish the job. The brake system may have a leak or it may need venting and a complete fluid change.
It's also important to remember your brake pads need replacing regularly as recommended by the manufacturer. Speak to a qualified service technician, if necessary.
Step 7:
Open the reservoir
A SAFETY WARNING !
Do not expose the open reservoir to air longer than necessary. The brake fluid attracts water out of the atmosphere into the brake system. This can lower the fluid's boiling point and can dangerously result in brake malfunction. Brake fluid should be completely
changed periodically to avoid this.
Take off the lid and do not interrupt the following steps.
Keep the reservoir open only for as long as it takes to fill it up. Place the lid on a clean part nearby.
Step 8:
Adjust the brake fluid level
Insert a funnel to avoid spillage,....
SAFETY WARNING !
Brake fluid is highly toxic. Avoid direct contact with your body and consult a doctor if you accidently ingest it.
Add brake fluid carefully as necessary.
Fill both halves in double reservoirs .
Make sure not to go over the maximum fill line.
Step 9:
Close the reservoir
Remove the funnel carefully to avoid any spills.
Have a cloth ready to wipe up spilled fluid. Protect the environment and avoid dropping fluid on the ground. Spills on the bodywork have to be washed off with water.
Put the lid back on immediately after. Wipe up any remaining fluid. Get rid of empty containers carefully.
Wash your hands well after handling brake fluid.
Step 10:
Close the bonnet
Make sure you shut the bonnet properly. It's important to check the fluid level regularly before your brake fluid warning lights come on.
You won't really notice a difference in performance of your brakes if they were working normally before the fluid top up.
You are ready to get back on the road now...
Drive safely and remember to replace the entire fluid and the brake pads on time. |
