2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 373

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 371 • Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, also keep the front of the condenser clean. • Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions. Brake System Fluid Level Check - Brake Master Cylinder The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked whenever the vehicle is serviced, or immediately if the brake system warning light is on. If necessary, add fluid to bring level to the full mark on the side of the reservoir of the brake master cylinder. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing the cap. With disc brakes, fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should be checked when pads are replaced. If the brake fluid level is abnormally low, check system for leaks. Refer to "Fluids, Lubricants, and Genuine Parts" in this section for the correct fluid type. WARNING! • Use of brake fluid that may have a lower initial boiling point, or is unidentified as to specifications, may result in sudden brake failure during hard prolonged braking. You could have an accident. • Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts and the brake fluid catching fire. 7