1996 Ford Ranger Owner's Manual - Page 303

Brake Fluid Your vehicle is equipped with a brake fluid level indicator in the master cylinder which lights the BRAKE warning light on the instrument panel when the brake fluid level is low. 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 pads wear. Check the brake fluid at least once a year. You can do this by looking at the fluid level in the plastic brake fluid reservoir on the master cylinder. 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-AA, C6AZ-19542-BA, or equivalent DOT 3 fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A. NOTE: If brake fluid is spilled on painted surfaces, it must be flushed and wiped away immediately. Brake fluid may dissolve the paint finish on your vehicle. RWARNING If you use a brake fluid that is not DOT 3, you will cause permanent damage to your brakes. 304