Inspection and Verification
| WARNING | Use of any brake fluid other than the approved DOT 3 will cause permanent damage to brake components and will render the brakes inoperative. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. |
| WARNING | Brake fluid contains polyglycol ethers and polyglycols. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury. |
| CAUTION | Do not spill brake fluid onto painted surfaces. If spilled, wipe up immediately. |
Note. Always check the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir before carrying out the test procedures. If the fluid level is not at the correct level, clean the reservoir cap before removing, then add DOT 3 brake fluid.
Note. Prior to carrying out any diagnosis, make sure the red brake warning indicator is functional. For additional information, refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER- CONVENTIONAL .
The first indication that something may be wrong in the brake system is a change in the feeling through the brake pedal. The brake warning indicator in the instrument cluster 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 cause of the trouble. 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.
Road Test
The technician should have a thorough knowledge of the brake system operation and accepted general braking guidelines in order to detect any problems.
Select a road that is reasonably smooth and level. Gravel or bumpy roads are not suitable because the surface does not allow the tires to grip the road equally. Avoid crowned roads.
A key factor in evaluating brake concerns is the deceleration rate. This varies from vehicle to vehicle and with changes in operating conditions. It is evident how well the brakes are working after just a few applications.
For low or spongy brake pedal concerns
- Check and, if necessary, refill the brake master cylinder reservoir.
- Bleed the brake system and retest the brake pedal feel.
- If the brake pedal is still low or feels spongy, check the brake pedal mounting for looseness and correct installation. Check the brake booster and the brake master cylinder for loose mounting. Correct as necessary and retest the system for normal operation.
For a slow or incomplete brake pedal return concern
- Inspect for binding, damage, correct installation or interference at the brake pedal.
- Check the brake booster for binding, damage and correct installation.