2004 Dodge Stratus Owner's Manual - Page 210
2004 Dodge Stratus Manual
Page 210 highlights
210 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are present. Insure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or collapsed. NOTE: Often, fluids such as oil, power steering fluid, and brake fluid are used during assembly plant operations to ease the assembly of hoses to couplings. Therefore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not necessarily an indication of leakage. Actual dripping of hot fluid when systems are under pressure (during vehicle operation) should be noted before hose is replaced based on leakage. NOTE: Inspection of brake hoses should be done whenever the brake system is serviced and every engine oil change. Master Cylinder The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked when performing under hood services, or immediately if the brake system warning lamp shows system failure. WARNING! Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure. You could have an accident. If you see any signs of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake hoses replaced immediately. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing the cap. If necessary, fill brake fluid reservoir to the top of the fill mark chevron. With disc brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads wear. However, low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed.