Brake System - Chrysler Patriot Owner's Manual

• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) addi-
tions are required, or if the level in the
coolant recovery bottle does not drop when
the engine cools, the cooling system should
be pressure tested for leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concen-
tration at 50% HOAT engine coolant (anti-
freeze) (minimum) and distilled water for
proper corrosion protection of your engine
which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the radiator and coolant
recovery bottle overflow hoses are not
kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your
vehicle is equipped with air conditioning,
keep the front of the condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or
Winter operation. If replacement is ever nec-
essary, install ONLY the correct type thermo-
stat. Other designs may result in unsatisfac-
tory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
PAGE POSITION: 199

Brake System

In order to assure brake system performance,
all brake system components should be in-
spected periodically. Refer to "Maintenance
Schedule" for the proper maintenance inter-
vals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure
and possibly an accident. Driving with your
foot resting or riding on the brake pedal can
result in abnormally high brake temperatures,
excessive lining wear, and possible brake
damage. You would not have your full braking
capacity in an emergency.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be
checked when performing under hood ser-
vices, or immediately if the brake system warn-
ing light is on.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder
area before removing the cap. If necessary,
add fluid to bring the fluid level up to the
requirements described on the brake fluid res-
JOB: @ibm2/chry_pdm/CLS_chrysler-intl/GRP_owners/JOB_202720-en-pat-10MK74-126-ENG-AA/DIV_og
ervoir. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake pads wear. The brake fluid level should
be checked when the pads are replaced. How-
ever, low fluid level may be caused by a leak
and a checkup may be needed.
NOTE:
If your vehicle is equipped with a manual
transaxle, the brake fluid reservoir supplies
fluid to both the brake system and the clutch
release system. The two systems are sepa-
rated in the reservoir, and a leak in one
system will not affect the other system. The
manual transaxle clutch release system
should not require fluid replacement during
the life of the vehicle. If the brake fluid
reservoir is low and the brake system does
not indicate any leaks or other problems, it
may be a result of a leak in the hydraulic
clutch release system. See your local autho-
rized dealer for service.
Use only manufacturer's recommended brake
fluid. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine
Parts" in "Maintaining Your Vehicle" for further
information.
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