What to Add
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid
-- such as Delco Supreme 11 @ (GM Part
No. 1052535). Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only,
and always clean the brake fluid
reservoir cap before removing it.
c,
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 wanzing 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).
NOTICE:
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads
could result in costly brake repair.
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Throttle Linkage Inspection
Inspect the throttle linkage for interference or binding,
and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as
needed.
Manual Transmission
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.
Rear Axle Service
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 repair it if
needed.
Brake System Inspection
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.
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