SlashBecks

i couldn't find any specific info on this, so here goes....

i'm getting the brake warning light every now and then while I'm driving, the same light that comes on when the parking brake is up. i checked the parking brake, so it's not that, i checked the brake fluid and it's right on the minimum level mark. i was going to just put some fluid in to bring it up to max, but i've heard that it's not good to mix fluids (unless you know exactly which one was used in the car), and i just got this car from an auction, so i don't know which fluid was in it. What is the recommended fluid brand and type for a '96 ES?

as an afterthought, i called the dealer to get my service records, so will the brake fluid used be mentioned in that?

steviej

iTrader: (1)

use what it says to use in the manual or on the cap of the brake fluid reservoir. You don't have to be brand specific as long as the brand you top off with meets or exceeds the requirements called for in the manual or on the cap.

My guess it is DOT III.

If you have any concern at all and have a little extra money to spend....you could spring for an entire brake fluid flush and refill. This way you know all the fluid is clean and void of any water contaminant. You did say you got it from and auction, so I assume the history of the last brake fluid change is vaque.

Personnally I would top it off with new DOT III fluid and call it a day. Save the fluid flush for when you go to put new pads and rotors on it.

steviej

SlashBecks

thanks steve, i was about to get the DOT III, but i wanted to make sure that it was ok to just top it off. I am going to change the brake pads, so i guess i'll do the flush and refill then.