Skoda Fabia 2003 Owner's Manual page 181

180 Inspecting and Replenishing
models is positioned on the other side of the engine compart-
ment.
– Switch the engine off.
– Open the bonnet ⇒
ment" on page 172.
– Inspect the brake fluid level in the reservoir
fig. 130. The level must be between the "MIN" and "MAX"
markings.
A slight drop in the fluid level results when driving due to normal wear-and-
tear and automatic adjustment of the brake pads, and is perfectly normal.
There may be an indication of a leak in the brake system, however, if the
fluid level drops significantly within a short time or if it drops below the
"MIN" marking. A situation where the brake fluid level is too low is indi-
cated by the warning light
⇒ page 35. You should drive carefully and immediately to the nearest
Škoda Dealer and have the brake system inspected.
Replacing brake fluid
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. This causes the fluid to absorb moisture
from the surrounding air over a period of time. Excessive water in the
brake fluid may be the cause of corrosion in the brake system. The water
content also lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. This is why brake
fluid must be replaced every two years.
You must only use new genuine brake fluid from Skoda Auto. The speci-
fication for the brake fluid is "FMVSS 116 DOT 4".
in "Working in the engine compart-
⇒ page 179,

lighting up in the instrument cluster
We recommend that you have the brake fluid replaced by a Škoda Dealer
as part of an Inspection Service.
WARNING
•
Using old brake fluid can result in severe stress on the brakes
because of the formation of vapour bubbles in the brake system.
This greatly impairs the braking efficiency and thus also the safety
of your vehicle.
•
Brake fluid is toxic! It must therefore be kept safely in closed
original containers and well away from children.
Caution
Brake fluid damages the paintwork of the vehicle.
For the sake of the environment
In view of the problems involved with proper disposal of brake fluid, the
special tools and the professional knowledge required, you should have
the brake fluid replaced by a Škoda dealer.