Brake System

BRAKE SYSTEM

Inspection and Verification

Material





WARNING:Do not use any fluid other than clean brake fluid meeting manufacturer's specification. Additionally, do not use brake fluid that has been previously drained. Following these instructions will help prevent system contamination, brake component damage and the risk of serious personal injury.

WARNING:Carefully read cautionary information on product label. For EMERGENCY MEDICAL INFORMATION seek medical advice. For additional information, consult the product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) if available. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

CAUTION:Blistering or swelling of rubber brake components can indicate contamination of the brake fluid by a petroleum-based substance. The entire hydraulic brake system must be flushed with clean, specified brake fluid and contaminated rubber components must be replaced to prevent recontamination.

CAUTION:Do not spill brake fluid on painted or plastic surfaces or damage to the surface may occur. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, immediately wash the surface with water.
NOTE:Always check the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir before carrying out any test procedures. If the fluid level is not at the correct level, clean the reservoir cap before removing, then add clean, specified brake fluid.
The first indication that something may be wrong in the brake system is a change in the feel through the brake pedal. The brake warning indicator in the instrument cluster (IC) and the brake fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir are also indicators of system concerns.If a wheel is locked and the vehicle must be moved, open a bleeder screw at the locked wheel to let out enough fluid to relieve the pressure. Close the bleeder screw. This bleeding operation may release the brakes but will not correct the concern. If this does not relieve the locked wheel condition, repair the locked components before proceeding.Inspect all hoses and connections. All unused vacuum connectors should be capped. Make sure hoses and their connections are correctly secured and in good condition with no holes, soft or collapsed areas.
1. Verify the customer concern.

2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.

Visual Inspection Chart





- For parking brake concerns, see Parking Brake System.
- For vacuum pump (hybrid vehicles) concerns, see Parking Brake System.
- For ABS concerns, see Description and Operation.
- For brake-by-wire (hybrid vehicles) concerns, see - Brake Systems.
- For active brake booster (hybrid vehicles) concerns, see - Service and Repair.

3. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.

4. If the cause is not visually evident, see Brake Systems.

5. If brake system concern is not evident, visually inspect the suspension system and tires for obvious signs of wear or damage.

- For suspension system concerns, Suspension System.
- For tire concerns, - Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures.