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How do you check the brake fluid in a Honda Civic?

What’s the easiest way to check the brake fluid level in my Honda Civic? My brake pedal is starting to feel a little weird, and my brake warning light popped on. I figure I can skip a professional diagnosis if the brake fluid’s the problem, but I don’t know how to check it!

avatar
Joshua Levy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Learning how to check your brake fluid is an essential part of
car maintenance
—so it’s a worthwhile skill to learn! Plus, it’s a simple process.
Follow these steps to check the brake fluid in your Honda Civic:
  • Step 1: Park your car on a level surface.
  • Step 2: Let your engine cool if you’ve been driving it recently.
  • Step 3: Pop your hood and locate the brake fluid reservoir—the cap should have a yellow octagon on top.
  • Step 4: Look for the MAX and MIN marks on the side of the reservoir that mark the maximum and minimum amounts of brake fluid you should have.
  • Step 5: Fill up the reservoir to the indicated level.
  • Step 6: Close your hood—you’re all done!
Before you pat yourself on the back and forget about the brake fluid, you should also check the brake fluid color. Fresh fluid will be clear, but old brake fluid will look brown or black. If it’s too dark, bring your car to a mechanic for a brake fluid flush—it should cost around $100.
Luckily, you can offset the price by saving on car insurance with
Jerry
. A licensed broker, the Jerry app helps users save an average of $879 a year on car insurance. Just download the app, answer a few questions, and Jerry will help you compare personalized quotes from over 50 top providers like Progressive and Nationwide for free.
MORE: How to check and add brake fluid
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