Warning: Brake fluid can harm your eyes and damage painted surfaces, so use extreme caution when handling or pouring it. Do not use brake fluid that has been standing open or is more than one year old. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Excess moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking effectiveness.
1. At the specified intervals, the brake fluid should be drained and replaced. Since the brake fluid may drip or splash when pouring it, place plenty of rags around the master cylinder to protect any surrounding painted surfaces.
2. Before beginning work, purchase the specified brake fluid (see Recommended lubricants and fluids in this Chapter’s Specifications).
3. Remove the cap from the master cylinder reservoir.
4. Using a hand suction pump or similar device, withdraw the fluid from the master cylinder reservoir.
5. Add new fluid to the master cylinder until it rises to the base of the filler neck.
6. Bleed the brake system as described in Brakes at all four brakes until new and uncontaminated fluid is expelled from the bleeder screw. Be sure to maintain the fluid level in the master cylinder as you perform the bleeding process. If you allow the master cylinder to run dry, air will enter the system.
7. Refill the master cylinder with fluid and check the operation of the brakes. The pedal should feel solid when depressed, with no sponginess.
Warning: Do not operate the vehicle if you are in doubt about the effectiveness of the brake system.
