1997 Ford Contour Owner's Manual - Page 185

Brake Fluid Under normal circumstances, your vehicle should not use up brake fluid rapidly. However, expect the level of the brake fluid to slowly fall as you put more mileage on your vehicle and the brake lining wears. You should check the brake fluid at every scheduled engine oil change, but be sure to check it at least once a year. You can do this by looking at the fluid level in the plastic reservoir on the master cylinder. (See The Engine Types in this chapter to locate the brake fluid reservoir.) The fluid level should be at or near the MAX mark. RWARNING Brake fluid is toxic. If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately. If the fluid is low, carefully clean and remove the cap from the reservoir. Fill the reservoir to the MAX line with Ford High Performance DOT 3 Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AB or equivalent DOT 3 fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A. RWARNING If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause permanent damage to your brakes. Do not fill the reservoir above the MAX line. If you find that the fluid level is excessively low - below the seam or ridge on the outside of the plastic reservoir - have the brake system inspected. 188