Should the car be running when adding brake fluid?
No, the car should not be running when adding brake fluid. The proper procedure is to turn off the engine and apply the parking brake before checking and refilling the brake fluid reservoir.
Detailed Explanation
Adding brake fluid to a vehicle's brake system is a routine maintenance task that should be performed with the engine off and the car parked on a level surface. This is important for several reasons:
- Safety: With the engine running, the brake system is under pressure, which could cause brake fluid to spray out when the reservoir cap is removed. This poses a safety risk, as the fluid can get into your eyes or on your skin.
- Accuracy: Checking the brake fluid level and adding more fluid is best done with the engine off and the car stationary. This allows you to accurately assess the fluid level and add the correct amount without the system pressure affecting the reading.
- Maintenance: Performing this task with the engine running can potentially introduce air into the brake lines, which can reduce braking performance and lead to the need for brake system bleeding.
By following the proper procedure of turning off the engine and applying the parking brake, you can safely and effectively maintain the brake fluid level in your vehicle.
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