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LEARNLETS
How can I check my car's brake fluid?
Checking brake fluid is simple and straightforward.

1. Park your car on even ground. Make sure the engine is cool before you check it.
2. Find the master cylinder reservoir that holds the brake fluid. Consult your owner?s manual if you need help finding it. The reservoirs are usually made out of iron with an iron cylinder, or plastic with an iron cylinder. The latter is usually found in late-model cars.
3. If your car?s reservoir is plastic, you can visually inspect it from the outside to see if it needs more fluid. The reservoir will be marked with a "full" line.
4. If your car?s reservoir is made out of iron, it will have a cover that is held in place with a wire bail. Clean around the cover to keep any contaminants from falling into the reservoir, and unsnap the bail. Take off the cover and check the fluid level.
5. If you need more fluid, pour it through a funnel into the reservoir. The plastic reservoir?s cover should simply unscrew. Once again, be sure to clean it before opening it, so that contaminants don?t fall into the reservoir. When filling the reservoir, the fluid should come up to within 1/4 inch (6 mm) of the top of the reservoir.
6. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads on disc brakes wear. But low fluid level may be an indication of a leak. If you suspect a leak, have it checked out.



MORE LEARNLETS
Check Your Vehicle's Shocks and Struts
Troubleshoot Your Vehicle's Air Conditioner
React Properly When Your Car Hydroplanes
Understand Tire Labels
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 OTHER 2TORIALS AND LEARNLETS
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 AUTO 2TORIALS
Understand Tire Care
Discover how to best maintain your wheels for smoother, safer riding.
Install and Remove Snow Chains
Get a grip on winter driving.
Change Your Oil
Safeguard your car’s health, and save the expense of a trip to the shop.
Replace a Car Battery
It’s easier than you think with these easy-to-follow diagrams and instructions.
Flush a Car Radiator
Take care of your cooling system--your auto’s health depends on it.
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