2026-03-31

Brake Fluid Check (Test/Adjust)

Correction code 33031200 FRT 0.12 NOTE: Unless otherwise explicitly stated in the procedure, the correction code and FRT listed above reflect all of the work required to perform this procedure, including the linked procedures. Do not stack correction codes unless explicitly told to do so. NOTE: See Flat Rate Times to learn more about FRTs and how they are created. NOTE: See Personal Protection to make sure you are wearing proper PPE when performing the procedure below. NOTE: See Ergonomic Precautions for safe and healthy working practices.

  • 2026-01-29: Changed the steps from removing the RH front wheel assembly to removing the RH front wheel trim.
  • 2025-04-10: Added torque values for different brake calipers.
Equipment:
  • 1510075-00-A BrakeStrip 100 Brake Fluid Test Strips

Procedure

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CAUTION

Brake fluid dissolves paint. Have clean towels and plenty of water standing by to wash spilled brake fluid off painted surfaces.

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Note
Check the service history of the vehicle to determine which type of brake fluid the brake system is filled with.
  1. Remove the rear underhood apron. See Underhood Apron - Rear (Remove and Replace).
  2. Clean the area around the brake fluid reservoir and then remove the brake fluid reservoir cap.
  3. Use a plastic trim tool to release the spring clips (x5) around the RH front wheel trim edge in sequence, then remove the RH wheel trim.
  4. Remove the cover from the outer brake bleed valve of the RH front caliper.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    If necessary, shift the vehicle into tow mode and gently push the vehicle to gain sufficient space.
  5. Position an absorbent mat over the RH front brake caliper and wheel to protect from brake fluid spills.
  6. Loosen the brake bleed valve only enough to allow a drop of brake fluid to seep out, and then close the valve.
  7. Remove a brake test strip from the container, and then close the container.
  8. Touch the square pad of the test strip to the fluid, remove the test strip from the wheel, gently shake the test strip over a shop towel to remove excess brake fluid, and start a 90 second timer.
  9. After 90 seconds, compare the color of the test strip square pad to the color chart on the side of the container.
    • If the test strip square pad is darker than the 100 PPM color sample, a brake fluid bleed/flush is recommended.
    • If the test strip square pad is the same color, or lighter than the 30 PPM color sample, it is recommended to repeat this brake fluid check in 4 years.
    • If the test strip does not clearly fall into a color category, always assume the worse condition of the fluid.
  10. Record the test strip result and recommendation into the Public Notes field of the Job Line.
  11. Tighten the brake bleed valve.

    Mando brake calipers

    10 Nm (7.4 lbs-ft)

    Hitachi brake calipers

    12 Nm (8.8 lbs-ft)

    Brembo brake calipers

    18.5 Nm (13.6 lbs-ft)
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    TIp
    Use of the following tool(s) is recommended:
    • 11 mm socket
  12. Remove the absorbent mat from the RH front wheel and wipe up any excess brake fluid.
  13. Install the cover onto the outer brake bleed valve.
  14. Align the valve stem, then slightly press the wheel cap to engage the clips (x5) to install the RH front wheel trim.
    Informational PurposesAn informational icon, calling your attention
    Note
    Make sure that the center ring is properly seated.
  15. Install the brake fluid reservoir cap.
  16. Install the rear underhood apron. See Underhood Apron - Rear (Remove and Replace).