Chevrolet Spark Owners Manual: Brakes
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound can come and go or be heard all the time when the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.
Warning
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque specifications. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12-2.
Brake pads should be replaced as complete sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system parts with new, approved replacement parts. If this is not done, the brakes may not work properly. The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the wrong replacement brake parts are installed or parts are improperly installed.
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When windshield washer fluid is needed, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions
before use. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below
freezi ...
Brake Fluid
The brake/clutch master cylinder
reservoir is filled with DOT 4 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 10-7 for the location of the reservoir.
The ...
Other materials:
Blizzard Conditions
Being stuck in snow can be a serious situation. Stay with the vehicle unless
there is help nearby.
If possible, use Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program on page
13-5.
To get help and keep everyone in the vehicle safe:
Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
Tie a red cloth t ...
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
Warning
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move.
You or others could be injured and property could be damaged.
Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be
ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
Park on ...
Driving on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can reduce vehicle traction and affect your ability to stop
and accelerate.
Always drive slower in these types of driving conditions and avoid driving through
large puddles and deep-standing or flowing water.
Warning
Wet brakes can cause crashes.
They might not work as wel ...
