Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid 2008 Owner's Manual page 258

Brakes
Brake Fluid
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in
the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake
fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal
brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid
level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is
leaking out of the brake hydraulic system. If it is, have
the brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means
that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.
5-30
The brake master
cylinder reservoir is filled
with DOT-3 brake fluid.
See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12
for the location of
the reservoir.
It is not a good idea to top off the brake fluid. Adding
brake fluid will not correct a leak. If fluid is added
when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid
when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove
brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on
the brake hydraulic system.
CAUTION:
{
If your vehicle has too much brake fluid, it can
spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the
engine is hot enough. You or others could be
burned, and your vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work is done on the
brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake
warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning
Light on page 3-34.
What to Add
When you need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container
only. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
on page 6-12.