Chevrolet Equinox Service Manual: Brake Fluid

The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicatedon the reservoir cap. SeeEngine Compartment Overviewfor the location of the reservoir.

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down:

The brake fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new liningsare installed, the fluid level goes back up.A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system can also cause a low fluid level. Havethe brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakeswill not work well.

Do not top off the brake fluid. Adding fluid does not correct a leak. If fluid isadded when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake liningsare installed. Add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done onthe brake hydraulic system.

Warning:If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engineand burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could beburned, and the vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only whenwork is done on the brake hydraulic system.

When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. SeeBrake System Warning Light.

What to Add

Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid from a sealed container. SeeRecommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removingit. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.

Warning:With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system,the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Alwaysuse the proper brake fluid.

Caution:

Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts. For example,just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulicsystem can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to bereplaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish canbe damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle. If you do, wash itoff immediately.