2008 Dodge Avenger Owner's Manual - Page 397

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 395 WARNING! Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake damage. You wouldn't have your full braking capacity in an emergency. Brake And Power Steering Hoses When servicing the vehicle for scheduled maintenance, inspect the surface of the hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of heat and mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling suggest deterioration of the rubber. Particular attention should be made to examining those hose surfaces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold. Ensure nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or collapsed. Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are present. 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 a hose is replaced based on leakage. • Inspect the brake hoses whenever the brake system is serviced and at every engine oil change. Inspect hydraulic brake hoses for surface cracking, scuffing, or worn spots. If there is any evidence of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, the hose should be replaced 7