2007 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 211

Car care 211 Brake/clutch fluid and brake pads WARNING Brake fluid deteriorates as it becomes old. Because it is hygroscopic, it absorbs water from the air and, in time, could allow vapor to form in the brake system, thus reducing its performance. It is therefore important that brake fluid be changed regularly, as specified in the service program. If the level drops too low, the following message appears on the SID: Brake fluid level low. Make a safe stop. Top up as necessary with DOT 4 brake fluid. Do not use DOT 5 fluid. Use only new brake fluid from a sealed container. The brake fluid level will fall somewhat as the brake pads wear. The MAX level in the reservoir corresponds to the amount of brake fluid required with new brake pads. If the fall in fluid level is moderate, due to normal brake pad wear, topping up is not necessary. If the brake fluid should require changing, this must be carried out at a Saab dealer. We recommend that you contact a Saab dealer. The foot brake and parking brake are selfadjusting. It is not possible to detect, through abnormal pedal or parking brake lever travel, whether the brake pads are worn and need replacing. It is therefore essential that brake pads be checked regularly, as specified in the service program. Brake fluid reservoir Checking Brake fluid should be changed according to the service program. Refer to the Warranty and Service Book. The brake and clutch fluid reservoir is transparent to facilitate checking of the fluid level. The fluid level should lie between the MAX and MIN marks. NOTICE Avoid spilling brake fluid onto paintwork, since it can cause the paint to bubble and lift. If any brake fluid is spilled, the area should be flushed with large quantities of water as quickly as possible. Brake pads should only be changed at a workshop. We recommend that you contact a Saab dealer.