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Brake Fluid: Check
the brake fluid when you check all the other fluids. It's easy to do and only takes a minute.
Here are the steps to follow to check your VW's brake fluid:
1. Find the brake master cylinder. This
is usually located under the hood on the driver's side of the car, toward the back
of the engine compartment. Imagine where your brake pedal would end up if it went
all the way through to the engine. The brake master cylinder is a small (about 6
by 2 inches), rectangular piece of metal with a plastic reservoir and a rubber cap
on top, with small metal tubes leading from it.
2. Check your owner's manual if you
aren't sure that you've found the master cylinder. The rubber cap will usually read
"Use only DOT 3 or 4 brake fluid from a sealed container."
3. Note that on most newer-model cars
the reservoir is translucent and you can see the fluid level without removing the
cap. There will be a "Full" line - the brake fluid should be at this line.
4. In older cars (pre-1980), the brake
master cylinder reservoir may be made entirely of metal so you must take the top
off to check the fluid level. The top is held on by a metal clamp - use a screwdriver
to pop off the clamp and lift the lid.
5. Add brake fluid to the "Full" line.
If the reservoir has two parts, fill both halves. Use the correct brake fluid for
your VW. Check the rubber cap and your owner's manual to find out what grade of
brake fluid your car requires. Most cars use DOT (Department of Transportation)
3 or 4.
Brake fluid
is very toxic. Keep it away from hands and eyes and avoid spilling it on the ground.
Dispose of empty containers carefully and be especially careful not to spill brake
fluid on your car's paint.
Always wash your hands well after handling brake fluid.
If the brake
master cylinder is empty, the brake pedal will go to the floor. If this is the case,
you will have to bleed the brakes in addition to adding fluid. It's probably best
to see your VW mechanic, who will be able to flush and refill the braking system.
Never drive a car that has run out of brake fluid until bleeding the brakes!
You may also
want to check out The Classic Air Cooled history:http://www.volkspares.co.uk/Shop/classic_air_cooled_new.html
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