What to Add:
When you do need brake fluid, use only
DOT-3 brake fluid - such as Delco-
Supreme ll@
(GM Part No. 1052535).
Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only, and always clean the
brake fluid reservoir cap before
removing it.
NOTICE:
Don’t let someone put in the
wrong kind of fluid. For example,
just
a few drops of mineral-based
oil, such as engine oil, in your
brake system can damage brake
system parts
so badly that they’ll
have to be replaced.
Brake fluid can damage paint,
so
be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you
do, wash it
off immediately. See “Appearance
Care”
in the Index.
Brake Wear
Unless you have the four-wheel disc
brake option, your Pontiac has front disc
brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc
brake pads have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake pads
are worn and new pads are needed. The
sound may come and
go or be heard all
the time your vehicle is moving (except
when you are pushing on the brake pedal
firmly).
I NOTICE:
I
Continuing to drive with worn-out
brake pads could result in costly
brake repair. Some driving conditions
or climates may
cause a brake squeal when the brakes are
first applied or lightly applied. This does
not mean something is wrong with your
brakes.
If you have rear drum brakes, they don’t
have wear indicators, but if you ever hear
a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rear
brake linings inspected. Also, the rear
brake drums should be removed and
inspected each time the tires are removed
for rotation or changing. When you have
the front brakes replaced, have
the rear
brakes inspected, too.
Brake linings should always be replaced
as complete axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does
not return to normal height, or if there is a
rapid increase in pedal travel.
This could
be a sign
of brake trouble.
I.
207. . .
ProCarManuals.com
Maintenance Schedule
Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections (Cont.)
I INSPECTION
F Manual Transmission
I
Rear Axle Service
Brake System
Inspection
WHAT SHOULD BE DONE
Check the transmission fluid level; add if needed. See “Manual Transmission” in the Index.
A fluid
loss may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair if needed.
Check the gear lubricant level in the rear axle and add if needed. See “Rear Axle” in the Index.
A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the axle and repai\
r it if needed.
If your vehicle
is used to pull a trailer, have the rear axle gear lubricant changed every
7,500 miles
(12 500 km).
Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and hoses for \
proper hookup, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also
inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other \
brake parts, including drums,
wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc. The parking brake\
is self-adjusting and no manual
adjustment is required. You may need to have your brakes inspected more often if your driving
habits or conditions result in frequent braking.
NOTE: A low brake fluid level can indicate worn disc brake pads which may need to be serv-
iced. Also, if the brake system warning light stays on or comes on, something may be wrong
with the brake system.
See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index. If your anti-lock brake \
system warning light stays on, comes on or flashes, something may be wrong with the anti-lock
brake system. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light’’ in the Index.
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ProCarManuals.com
