Operation, maintenance -> Brake fluid for your BMW 3 Series 1997-2006

Coolant  
Brake fluid  
127  
3. If necessary, add coolant. If the cool-  
ant is low, slowly add coolant until  
the correct level is reached — do not  
overfill.  
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that is,  
it absorbs moisture from the air  
over time.  
In order to ensure the safety and reli-  
ability of the brake system, have the  
brake fluid changed every two years by  
a BMW center. Refer also to the Service  
and Warranty Information Booklet for  
US models or the Warranty and Service  
Guide Booklet for Canadian models.  
Brake fluid is toxic and damages the  
vehicle's paint. You should always store  
it in its closed original container and in  
a location inaccessible to children.  
Do not spill the brake fluid and do not  
fill the brake fluid reservoir beyond the  
MAX mark. The brake fluid could ignite  
upon contact with hot engine parts and  
cause serious burns.<  
Comply with the applicable envi-  
ronmental laws regulating the dis-  
posal of antifreeze agents with corro-  
sion inhibitor.<  
Indicator lamp  
The brake warning lamp comes  
on when the parking brake is  
not engaged: brake fluid level  
too low, refer to page 18.  
Brake warning lamp for Cana-  
dian models.  
Comply with the applicable envi-  
ronmental laws regulating  
the disposal of brake fluid.<  
Adding brake fluid  
For adding brake fluid or for determin-  
ing and correcting the cause of brake  
fluid loss, consult your BMW center.  
Your BMW center is familiar with the  
specifications for factory-approved  
brake fluids – DOT 4.  
Due to loss in brake fluid, pedal travel  
can lengthen and braking efficiency  
may be reduced. Refer to the informa-  
tion on page 112.