Brake Fluid: Service and Repair

Checking brake fluid level:




The brake fluid reservoir is below the left side of the plenum panel. See illustration.

The correct fluid level is important for the proper functioning of the brake system. The fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir should always be between the "MAX" and "MIN" markings.

The fluid level may drop slightly after some time due to the automatic adjustment of the brake pads. This is no cause for alarm.

STOP! If the brake fluid level falls considerably below the "MIN" mark, the brake warning light will come on. Do not continue to operate the vehicle. The complete brake system should be thoroughly checked by a VOLKSWAGEN dealer or another qualified workshop and the cause corrected.

The brake warning lamp lights up to indicate a low fluid level in the reservoir. Contact a VOLKSWAGEN dealer immediately.

Changing brake fluid:

The brake fluid reservoir can be difficult to reach, therefore, we recommend that you have the brake fluid changed by your authorized VOLKSWAGEN dealer. Your dealer has the correct tools and know-how to do this for you.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, corrosion in the brake system may result after a period of time. The boiling point of the brake fluid will also decrease considerably.

Therefore, the brake fluid must be changed every 2 years.

Note

Remember that brake fluid is harmful to the paint of your vehicle.

Because of the problem of proper disposal of brake fluid along with the special tools required and the necessary expertise, we recommend that you have your brake fluid changed by your VOLKSWAGEN dealer.

It is advisable to have the fluid changed during a Maintenance Service.

WARNING

Brake failure can result from old or inappropriate brake fluid. Observe these precautions:

^ Use only brake fluid that meets SAE specification J1703 and conforms to Federal Motor Vehicle Standard 116. Always check with your authorized Volkswagen dealer to make sure you are using the correct brake fluid. The correct type of brake fluid is also found labeled on the brake fluid reservoir.

^ The brake fluid must be new.

^ Brake fluid is poisonous. Therefore, it must be stored only in the closed original container out of reach of children.