How to Add Brake Fluid to the Clutch Master Cylinder

Cars with manual transmissions use either a clutch cable or a hydraulic system. If your car has a hydraulic clutch, you must check and add brake fluid to the clutch master cylinder when you check all the other fluids. See your car owner's manual to find out what grade of brake fluid your car requires (DOT 3 or 4).

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Funnel
• Rag
• Brake Fluid

1. Find the clutch master cylinder's reservoir. It looks like the brake master cylinder's reservoir, but it's smaller and usually closer to the driver's side fender.
2. Clean the top of the reservoir with a rag so debris won't fall in when you open the cap.
3. Remove the cap and check the level (see illustration). The cap may screw off counterclockwise or may pop off. There may be low and full indicators. If not, the full level should reach the top of the reservoir.
4. Add brake fluid if the reservoir is low, using a funnel to avoid any spills.
5. Replace the cap.
6. If the fluid was low, recheck it weekly for a few weeks to make sure your car doesn't have a leak.

Tips & Warnings

• A faulty clutch master cylinder may leak brake fluid inside your car. If you notice a clear, slippery substance behind the clutch pedal, you probably have a leak.
• Brake fluid is corrosive. Take care not to spill any on your hands, clothes or car paint.