Brake Fluid

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Excursion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Use of any brake fluid other than approved DOT 3 will cause permanent damage to brake components and will render the brakes inoperative.

WARNING: Brake fluid contains polyglycol ethers and polyglycols. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. 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.

CAUTION: Brake fluid is harmful to painted or plastic surfaces. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, immediately wash it with water.

Use clean, fresh Ford High Performance DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid C6AZ-19542-AB or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25A.

Do not reuse brake fluid drained or bled from the system.
Do not use brake fluid that has been stored in an open container.
Do not mix different types of brake fluid.

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is pushed from the master cylinder through the metal tubing and flexible hoses to the rear disc brake calipers and the front disc brake calipers. The brake fluid enters the rear disc brake calipers, forcing the rear disc brake caliper pistons outward against the brake pads. The brake pads press against the braking surface on the brake discs. The front disc brake caliper pistons are forced outward against the brake pads, and contact the braking surface of the brake discs and hub. When the brake pedal is released, the pressure is relieved, returning the brake caliper pistons and the brake shoes and linings to the unapplied position.

The dual brake system is split front and rear with the front wheel brakes comprising one circuit and the rear wheel brakes, the other circuit.

The ability of a brake system to stop the vehicle is dependent on the available traction.