Seat Ibiza: Brake fluid

Seat Ibiza Owners Manual

Checking the brake fluid level

The brake fluid is checked at the intervals given in the service schedule.

Fig. 133 In the engine compartment: Brake fluid reservoir cover

– Read off the fluid level at the transparent brake fluid reservoir. It should always be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. The position of the brake fluid reservoir is shown in the corresponding engine compartment diagram. The brake fluid reservoir has a black and yellow cap. The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the brake pads are automatically adjusted as they wear.

However, if the level goes down noticeably in a short time, or drops below the “MIN” mark, there may be a leak in the brake system. A display on the instrument panel will warn you if the brake fluid level is too low.

WARNING

Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and observe the warnings.

Changing the brake fluid

The Maintenance Program indicates the brake fluid change intervals. We recommend that you have the brake fluid changed by an Authorised Service Centre. Before opening the bonnet, please read and follow the warnings ⇒ in “Safety instructions on working
in the engine compartment” on page 180 in “Working in the engine compartment”. Brake fluid absorbs moisture. In the course of time, it will absorb water from the ambient air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the brake system could corrode. This also considerably reduces the boiling point of the brake fluid. Heavy use of the brakes may then cause a vapour lock which could impair the braking effect. It is important that you use only brake fluid compliant with the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4. We recommend the use of Genuine SEAT brake fluid.

WARNING

Brake fluid is poisonous. Old brake fluid impairs the braking effect.

• Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and observe the warnings.

• Brake fluid should be stored in the closed original container in a safe place out of reach of children. There is a toxic risk.

• Complete the brake fluid change according to the Maintenance Program. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for too long. This would seriously affect the efficiency of the brakes and the safety of the vehicle. This may cause an accident.

Caution

Brake fluid could damage the paintwork. Wipe off any brake fluid from the paintwork immediately.

For the sake of the environment

Brake fluid must be drained and disposed of in the proper manner observing environmental regulations.