2009 to 2013 Honda Fit Check & Add Brake Fluid
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In this guide, you will learn how to check the brake fluid level on a Honda Fit.
At a Glance
- Fits: 2009 to 2013 Honda Fit
- Fluid: DOT 3 (confirm on the reservoir cap)
- Location: driver side, near the firewall
- Level: keep between MIN and MAX
- Warning: a fast drop or soft pedal means a leak; stop driving
Honda Fit vehicles use DOT3 brake fluid type. Always check the recommended brake fluid level by looking at the cap of the brake fluid reservoir.
Procedure
- Open the engine hood, and locate the brake fluid reservoir in the engine bay, on the driver side near the firewall.
- To check the fluid, see the level on the markings, MAX (Full) and MIN (Low) indicated on the side of the reservoir. Make sure that the brake fluid is not beyond the low-level indicator to prevent getting air in the brake fluid line.
- To add the brake fluid, twist the reservoir cap and pour the specific brake fluid for Honda Fit. The recommended brake fluid is usually indicated in the cap; for this vehicle, we must use DOT 3 OR DOT 4, fresh from the container, so there is no moisture inside.
- Put the cap back on. Observe your braking performance. If there is something out of the ordinary, recheck the brake fluid level, and if it decreased you have to get your car diagnosed. Some of the possible causes of low brake fluid level could be your brake pad condition, or there might be a leak from the braking system.
Checking the brake fluid level on a Honda Fit is very easy and takes less than five minutes. Do not drive the vehicle if the BRAKE light stays on even after brake fluid is added. Call an auto mechanic and ask for help with what you need to do next.
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Why Is the Brake Fluid Low?
- Worn brake pads: as pads wear, the caliper pistons move out and the fluid level drops slowly. A low level is often a sign the pads are due.
- A leak: a quick drop, wet spots near a wheel or a soft brake pedal means a leak. Do not drive until it is fixed.
- Brake warning light on: the reservoir float switch turns on the red brake light when the level gets low.
Do not just keep topping up. If you fill to MAX and then fit new pads later, the fluid pushed back from the calipers can overflow. Topping up to between MIN and MAX is the safe approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What brake fluid does a Honda Fit use?
DOT 3 brake fluid. Check the reservoir cap for the exact specification.
Why does my Honda Fit brake fluid keep going down?
Slow drops are normal as pads wear. A fast drop, wet spots near a wheel or a soft pedal means a leak that needs repair before driving.
How often should I change brake fluid on a Honda Fit?
Honda typically recommends replacing brake fluid about every 3 years, since it absorbs moisture over time.
More guides: browse all of our Honda repair and troubleshooting guides.
