Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Description & Operation
The brake system is one of the most important safety systems on any motor vehicle. For this reason it is necessary to exercise particular caution when working on the brake system and to comply with all instructions.
Brake system is hydraulically-operated, using a tandem master cylinder and power brake booster. Some models use a power steering pump driven booster. All models are equipped with single piston front and rear disc brake calipers. A brake pressure regulator is used to reduce fluid pressure to rear brakes.
Parking brake is cable actuated on rear brake and consists of internally mounted parking brake shoes. Basic adjustment of the parking brake is required whenever:
- Brake shoes are replaced.
- Brake discs are replaced.
- Bowden cable is replaced.
- Bowden cable guide tube is replaced.
- Adjusting unit is reset.
- Actuating stroke is excessive.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.