Check Chevrolet Brake Fluid Level
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Checking and topping up the brake fluid is straightforward and the procedure below covers it. One thing to be clear about first: adding fluid does not fix a soft or spongy brake pedal. A pedal that feels springy, travels further than usual or sinks toward the floor means air in the system, a hydraulic leak or a failing master cylinder. Topping up a reservoir that is low because fluid is escaping hides the warning without fixing anything and the system will simply empty again, so find the cause before driving the car.
Symptoms
Common symptoms that you need brake fluid include a “Low Brake Fluid” warning message and a brake light constantly staying ON.
- Low Brake Fluid Warning
- Brake Light On
- The brake pedal is soft.
- The brake pedal can be pressed all the way.
- ABS light stays ON
It is not recommended to drive the brake light on.
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What you will need
- Brake Fluid
- The required type is printed on the brake fluid cap and the owner’s manual.
Procedure
If the brake level is low, add brake fluid immediately. Only use brake fluid noted on the cap of your Chevrolet brake fluid reservoir or the owner’s manual.
- Pull the hood release under the dashboard of the Chevrolet. Open the hood and secure it in the open position.
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir on the driver’s side of the engine bay.
- Determine the Low/Max level by looking at the side of the reservoir. Ensure the current brake fluid levels are between the maximum and minimum marks on the side of the reservoir.
- Add brake fluid if the brake fluid is below the minimum level.
- Always look at the brake fluid reservoir cap to determine the correct brake fluid type.
- Add brake fluid until the level reaches below the MAX/Full mark. Do not fill the Chevrolet brake reservoir above the maximum mark.
Ensure the current brake fluid levels are between the maximum and minimum marks on the side of the reservoir.
These instructions apply to Chevrolet models such as
- Spark
- Sonic
- Bolt
- Volt
- Cruze
- Malibu
- Impala
- Camaro
- Corvette
- City Express
- Trax, Equinox
- Traverse
- Tahoe
- Suburban
- Colorado
- Silverado
- Sonic
- Blazer
- Astro
- HHR
- Uplander
- Avalanche
Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help with your Chevrolet.
