2001 Cadillac Catera Owners Manual - Files

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level inthe reservoir might go down. The first is that the brakefluid goes down to an acceptable level during normalbrake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluidlevel goes back up. The other reason is that fluid isleaking out of the brake system. If it is, you shouldhave your brake system fixed, since a leak means thatsooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’twork at all.So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off” your brake fluid.Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluidwhen your linings are worn, then you’ll have too muchfluid when you get new brake linings. You should add(or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work isdone on the brake hydraulic system.CAUTION:If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on theengine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hotenough. You or others could be burned, and yourvehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid onlywhen work is done on the brake hydraulic system.When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brakewarning light will come on. See “Brake System WarningLight” in the Index.What to AddWhen you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brakefluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only.Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in theMaintenance Schedule booklet.Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the areaaround the cap before removing it. This will help keepdirt from entering the reservoir.CAUTION:With the wrong kind of fluid in your brakesystem, your brakes may not work well, or theymay not even work at all. This could cause acrash. Always use the proper brake fluid.6-27