Brakes – general
If the brake pedal must be depressed farther than normal and requires greater foot pressure, the stopping distance will be longer.
A warning light in the instrument panel will light up to warn the driver that a fault has occurred.
If this light comes on while driving or braking, stop immediately and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir.
Note
Warning
Brake pad inspection
On vehicles equipped with a jack*, the condition of the brake pads can be checked by raising the vehicle (see Changing a wheel – removing wheel for information about using the jack and removing a wheel) and performing a visual inspection of the brake pads.
Warning
- If the vehicle has been driven immediately prior to a brake pad inspection, the wheel hub, brake components, etc., will be very hot. Allow time for these components to cool before carrying out the inspection.
- Apply the parking brake and put the gear selector in the Park (P) position.
- Block the wheels standing on the ground, use rigid wooden blocks or large stones.
Warning
- Use the jack intended for the vehicle when changing a tire. For any other job, use stands to support the vehicle.
- The jack should be kept well-greased and clean, and should not be damaged.
- Be sure the jack is on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.
- No objects should be placed between the base of jack and the ground, or between the jack and the attachment bar on the vehicle.
- The jack must correctly engage the jack attachment.
- Never allow any part of your body to be extended under a vehicle supported by a jack.
Power brakes function only when the engine is running
The power brakes utilize vacuum pressure which is only created when the engine is running. Never let the vehicle roll to a stop with the engine switched off.
If the power brakes are not working, considerably higher pressure will be required on the brake pedal to compensate for the lack of power assistance. This can happen for example when towing your vehicle or if the engine is switched off when the vehicle is rolling. The brake pedal feels harder than usual.
Water on brake discs and brake pads affects braking
Driving in rain and slush or passing through an automatic car wash can cause water to collect on the brake discs and pads. This will cause a delay in braking effect when the pedal is depressed. To avoid such a delay when the brakes are needed, depress the pedal occasionally when driving through rain, slush, etc. This will remove the water from the brakes. Check that brake application feels normal. This should also be done after washing or starting in very damp or cold weather.
Severe strain on the brake system
The brakes will be subject to severe strain when driving in mountains or hilly areas, or when towing a trailer. Vehicle speed is usually slower, which means that the cooling of the brakes is less efficient than when driving on level roads. To reduce the strain on the brakes, shift into a lower gear and let the engine help with the braking. Do not forget that if you are towing a trailer, the brakes will be subjected to a greater than normal load.
Cleaning the brake discs
Coatings of dirt and water on the brake discs may result in delayed brake function. This delay is minimized by cleaning the brake linings.
Cleaning the brake pads is advisable in wet weather, prior to long-term parking, and after the vehicle has been washed. Do this by braking gently for a short period while the vehicle is moving.