Checking Fluid Levels - Brake and Clutch Hydraulic Fluid

The brake master cylinder (BMC) is mounted on the brake booster of the vacuum servo unit. The clutch hydraulic cylinder is used on models with a manual transmission and is mounted next to the BMC directly on the rear bulkhead of the engine compartment. On models equipped with ABS, the ABS hydraulic modulator reservoir is located in the right side of the engine compartment.

Before checking the ABS modulator fluid level on the vehicle, drive the vehicle for a short time (several minutes) to equalize the pressures. If the fluid level rises significantly above the MAX mark, take the vehicle to a service station for more detailed inspection and necessary repairs.

The fluid level in the reservoirs is clearly visible through their translucent walls and must be maintained between the MIN and MAX marks on the walls. On vehicles so equipped, also check the hydraulic fluid level in the ABS unit reservoir located in the right side of the engine compartment.

If it is necessary to adjust the fluid level, thoroughly clean the reservoir cap and the surrounding area with a clean lint-free cloth to prevent dirt from entering the system.

When filling the reservoir, be careful not to splash fluid onto the surrounding painted body panels. Add only the fluid type specified by the regulatory requirements to each system. Never mix two fluids of different types! When adjusting the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir, do not fill it to the upper mark; leave approximately 20 mm below it. The level will return to normal automatically after the cap is installed. Warning: Brake fluid is extremely chemically aggressive. Do not allow it to get into your eyes or onto painted body panel surfaces! Do not use fluid for topping up the system if it has been stored for more than one year or stored in a container that is not tightly closed. Remember that brake fluid is very hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air, after which its effectiveness is noticeably reduced!

During the level adjustment, also carefully inspect the condition of the fluid and the inner walls of the reservoir. If sediment, solid foreign particles or water droplets are found, the system must be drained and refilled with fresh hydraulic fluid (refer to the Clutch and Driveshafts or Brake System section).

After the reservoir has been filled to the required level, install the cap securely.

Remember that the fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir gradually drops as the brake pad friction linings wear; however, this drop is always very small. If fluid must be added too frequently, there is a leak in the system. The source must be located without delay and the cause corrected. Carefully inspect all brake lines and their fittings, including the calipers, wheel cylinders and vacuum booster (refer to the Brake System Inspection section for details). A drop in fluid level in the clutch master cylinder reservoir indicates a leak in its hydraulic system (refer to the Clutch and Driveshafts section).

If, during the clutch master cylinder fluid level check, the reservoir is found to be almost empty, the brake system must be fully bled (refer to the Brake System section).