1998 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 168

Checking brake fluid Refilling brake fluid: 1. Turn the motor switch off. 2. Depress the brake pedal more than 40 times. 3. Remove the reservoir cover by hand. Add brake fluid up to the "MAX" line. If you do not follow the procedure above, the reservoir may overflow. Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking. To check the fluid level, simply look at the see- through reservoir. The level should be between the "MAX" and "MIN" lines on the reservoir. It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the brake pads wear or when the fluid level in the accumulator is high. If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a serious mechanical problem. If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the brake reservoir. Checking power steering fluid Close Open If hot O.K. If cold O.K. If hot add If cold add CAUTION Take care when filling the reservoir because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes and damage painted surfaces. If fluid gets in your hands or eyes, flush them with clean water. Check the fluid level on the dipstick. If necessary, add Toyota P.S fluid EH or equivalent. Use only Toyota P.S fluid EH or equivalent. Otherwise, you may not get expected power assist. You may check the level when the fluid is cold (below 20_C or 68_F). If the vehicle has not been driven for over 5 hours, the fluid is cold. The fluid will be hot (40_C - 80_C or 104_F - 178_F) if you turn the steering wheel from "LOCK" to "LOCK" 10 or more times with the vehicle stopped. NOTICE If you spill the fluid, be sure to wipe it off to prevent it from damaging the parts or paint. 160