Brake Fluid Reservoir - Lotus 2005 Elise Owner's Handbook Manual

BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR CAP

Brake Fluid Reservoir

Under normal circumstances, there is no requirement for
routine 'topping up' of the brake master cylinder reservoir. A
visual safety check is all that is required.
Every week, check the level of fluid in the brake fluid reservoir
located in the driver's side of the front services compartment,
beneath the access panel: Without disturbing the filler cap,
check that the level lies between the 'MAX' and 'MIN' marks
moulded on the translucent reservoir body. As the brake pads
wear, the level will drop gradually from the 'MAX' mark towards
the 'MIN', but if the level drops rapidly over a short period, have
your Lotus dealer investigate without delay. If the level is found
to be below the 'MIN' mark, it is likely there has been some fluid
loss, and that air will have entered the hydraulic system. The car
should not be driven until the fault has been investigated and
rectified. Note that a single reservoir is used to supply both of
the independent hydraulic circuits for the front and rear brakes,
and also serves the hydraulic clutch release circuit.
If any fluid is to be added, first clean the surrounding area
to guard against dirt ingress before unscrewing the reservoir
cap.
NOTICE: Spilled brake fluid can seriously damage the car's
paintwork and some plastic compoments, for example, the side
marker lamps. Take suitable precautions to protect the paintwork
from contamination, and in case of spillage, rinse the affected
area with water immediately: DO NOT WIPE.
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