Checking Brake Fluid; What To Add; Brake Wear - Cadillac 2005 XLR Owner's Manual

Checking Brake Fluid

You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap.
Look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should
be above the MIN mark on the reservoir. If it is not, have
your brake system checked to see if there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make
sure the level is between the MIN and MAX marks.

What to Add

When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid. Refer to Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
on page 7-11. Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area
around the cap before removing it. This will help
keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
CAUTION:
{
With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake
system, your brakes may not work well, or they
may not even work at all. This could cause a
crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
6-34
Notice:
•
Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake
system parts. For example, just a few drops of
mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your
brake system can damage brake system parts so
badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not
let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
•
If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle's painted
surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be
careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If
you do, wash it off immediately. See Appearance
Care on page 6-70.

Brake Wear

Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make
a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads
are worn and new pads are needed. The sound
may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle
is moving, except when you are pushing on the
brake pedal firmly.