Checking brake fluid level question...

daway · #1 08-12-2008, 04:26 PM

Hi,

I had a quick question about checking the level of brake fluid. In my Range Rover i had to turn the key to I (not starting it) and then wait in tell the pump turned off (to go down) then i could see the correct level. Do i have to do something like this or can it be checked when the engine is off (cold). I am just going on a road trip (1st one in the X) and wanted to check everything out.

Cheers,

daway · #2 08-12-2008, 04:33 PM

Also i was going to use this brake fluid and have used it in the past.
http://www.castrol.com/castrol/secti...tentId=7024043
This should work for the X5 3.0i

motordavid · #3 08-12-2008, 05:47 PM

From page 161 of the Manual, found on Front Page of this site:
Brake fluid 161nIf the indicator lamp for thebrake hydraulic system appears or if the CHECK BRAKE FLUIDwarning appears in the Check Control: the brake fluid level is too low in the reservoir. The brake fluid reservoir is located under the microfilter housing trim panel on the driver's side of the vehicle. For adding brake fluid or for determining
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). Brake fluid loss may result in extended brake pedal travel. For this situation,refer to the notes on page 141.

Your X is an '01...I'd rec'd getting the brake fluid flushed every couple of years, if you haven't already done so...
not saying I wouldn't drive it, but I would get it changed out when you get a chance.

daway · #4 08-12-2008, 07:42 PM

Hi David,

I did (do) read the owners manual and it did not anwser my question. Also i did a search and i did not find my anwser. All i am asking is the correct way to check the brake fluid level.
A. when the engine is running
B. when the engine is cold
C. when the key is in turn to the pos I (not running but lights on dash).

I am just new to the BMW engine and the owners manual is kind of weak and just gear to the non- DIY person. Like i stated in my 1st post: On the Range Rover Classic you have to check the level when the key is turned to pos. I and have to wait in tell the pump has turned off and the fluid drops down. My brake level seems to the MAX mark but i just wanted to know if one i am checking it right. We are going up to Door County for are 5th yr of my wife welding the ring onto me (LOL).

The PO (one owner) seemed to keep up with everything and i bought it at the BMW dealer were she bought it from. I was going to look at all the items she had done on the X (at the dealer). When i bought the X the sales person let me look at the computer w/ all the maint invoice and she seemed to take it in for everything (even light bulb changes) which was a plus when we decide to get this one. I will soon get the brake fluid flushed if i do not see anything from the BMW dealer invoices.

Nice pic of your X in the sig

Cheers,

motordavid · #5 08-12-2008, 07:44 PM

Well, with every car/m'cycle I've ever owned, I have checked
the fluid level/color with engine cold, (simply to avoid digging into
a hot underhood area), and with no "key" involved.
GL,mD

daway · #6 08-12-2008, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by motordavid

Well, with every car/m'cycle I've ever owned, I have checked
the fluid level/color with engine cold, (simply to avoid digging into
a hot underhood area), and with no "key" involved.
GL,mD

I will just go by that way. Thanks again. After having a Rangie for over 10yrs i am just programmed to do it with the key in poss. I. It was kind of a pain to wait for a couple mins. In the Rangies the fluid is all the way up to the neck of the cap and then when it will lower after the pump has to the MAX/MIN lines (depending of amount).

Also, I forgot to say that i liked your "my x page" pics

There is a really good vett's part shop up here is MN.