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:
Door Locks
Warning
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors
and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not
open it. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased
if the doors are not locked. S ...
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents
as they can damage the vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic parts. If damage occurs,
it would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Approv ...
Driving on Snow or Ice
Drive carefully when there is snow or ice between the tires and the road, creating
less traction or grip.
Wet ice can occur at about 0°C (32° F) when freezing rain begins to fall, resulting
in even less traction. Avoid driving on wet ice or in freezing rain until roads
can be treated with sal ...
