How To Check Your Brakes

Brake hydraulic fluid is vital to the operation of the braking system. If the level gets too low, air can enter the system, causing a spongy brake pedal and loss of braking power. The fluid also has to be changed every couple of years because it absorbs water from the air.


The following procedure will apply to most cars but you should first check your Haynes manual for model specific details. Note also that some Citroëns with hyrdaulic suspension use a completely different system and a special hydraulic fluid called LHM.


You will need the following:

Brake fluid, Clean rag, Brake bleeding kit (for fluid renewal)



Step 1:

The brake fluid reservoir is usually located at the back of the engine bay and looks like this. The MAX and MIN marks are indicated on the side of the reservoir. The fluid level must be between these two marks.

Step 2:

If topping up is necessary, first wipe the area around the filler cap with a clean cloth.

Step 3:

Once clean, unscrew the filler cap. If the fluid in the reservoir is obviously dark or dirty it should be changed.

Step 4:

Carefully add fluid, careful not to spill it on surrounding paintwork. Use only the specified fluid from a freshly opened container - see your car's handbook or your Haynes manual. After filling to the correct level, refit the cap and wipe up any spillages.

Step 5:

Fluid is renewed by pumping out ('bleeding') the old fluid, at the same time topping up the reservoir with new fluid. The fluid is bled out at bleed screws like this - normally one per wheel.

Step 6:

If you're using a brake bleeding kit, follow the manufacturer's instructions. You will probably need to refer to your Haynes manual as well for the correct order in which to bleed - you usually have to start at the bleed screw furthest away from the master cylinder - and for other special points.