Brakes and Traction Control: Service and Repair

Vehicle Storage Information-Brake System

The following information covers the recommended procedures, that should be followed for the vehicle's brake system, when long term storage and return to service is being performed on this vehicle.

Avoid storing the vehicle when the brake shoe friction material is wet. If brake shoe friction material is wet when the vehicle is to be stored, drive the vehicle at moderate speed while lightly applying the brakes. Perform this procedure while driving the vehicle for the distance of approximately 1 mile. This will heat up and dry the friction material on the brake shoes.

While the vehicle is being stored, do not apply the parking brakes.

Position a block on the ground in front of and behind at least two tires to keep the vehicle from moving while it is stored.

When storing vehicle, inspect brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir and if required fill to the proper level.

Before putting vehicle back into service after storage, inspect the braking discs for oxidation. Light oxidation of braking discs is considered normal and will be removed during normal driving of the vehicle. If heavy oxidation is present, or braking surfaces of rotors are pitted, it is recommended that the rotors be resurfaced before the vehicle is driven. If the vehicle is driven with heavily oxidized rotors, the friction material on the brake shoes will be contaminated by the oxidation.

If the vehicle has been stored for a period of two years or longer, the brake fluid that was in the vehicle during storage, should be bled from the brake hydraulic system and replaced with fresh brake fluid. To ensure adequate performance of the vehicle's brake system the brake fluid should be changed prior to returning the vehicle to service. This is necessary to remove any moisture absorbed by the brake fluid. See Brake Bleeding for the correct bleeding procedures.