GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Substandard or Contaminated Brake Fluid

Important: 

   • Use only Delco Supreme 11® Brake Fluid, GM P/N 1052535 (Canadian P/N 992667), or equivalent DOT 3 fluid.
   • Do not use power steering or transaxle fluid in the brake system.
   • Do not reuse brake fluid collected during system bleeding.
   • Always store brake fluid in a closed container.
   • Reseal brake fluid containers immediately after use.
   • Do not use brake fluid left in an open container or an improperly sealed container because it absorbs moisture or can become contaminated.
   • The following fluids may cause the brake fluid to boil or the rubber components in the hydraulic system to deteriorate:
      - Water
      - A silicone based fluid
      - A petroleum based fluid
      - Mineral oil
   • The following conditions provide evidence that the rubber components have deteriorated:
      - Swollen primary piston cups
      - Swollen piston cups on the drum brake wheel cylinders
      - Substandard or contaminated brake diaphragm
      - Substandard or contaminated master cylinder cover diaphragm
   • If deterioration of rubber is evident, complete the following procedure:
        1. Disassemble all of the hydraulic parts.
        2. Wash all of the parts with alcohol.
        3. Dry these parts with non-lubricated compressed air before assembly in order to keep alcohol out of the system.
   • Replace all of the rubber parts in the system, including the hoses.
   • Inspect the brake linings for fluid.
        If excessive fluid is found on the brake linings, replace the brake linings.
   • If the master cylinder piston seals are satisfactory, inspect for the following conditions:
      - Leaking
      - Excessive heat
   • If these conditions are not found, flush the hydraulic brake system. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Flushing .