engine compartment overview OLDSMOBILE AURORA 2002 User Guide

6-32 When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering
fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or
you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and
repaired. See ªEngine Compartment Overviewº in the
Index for reservoir location.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down,
wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then
unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove
the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If
necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to
the mark.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº in the Index.
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper
fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read
the manufacturer's instructions before use. If you will be
operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature
may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing. See ªEngine Compartment
Overviewº in the Index for reservoir location.
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6-34
Brakes
Brake Fluid
Your brake master
cylinder reservoir is on
the driver's side of the
engine compartment.
It is filled with DOT
-3
brake fluid. See
ªEngine Compartment
Overviewº in
the Index.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the
reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid
goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake
lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level
goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out
of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake
system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your
brakes won't work well, or won't work at all.So, it isn't a good idea to ªtop offº your brake fluid.
Adding brake fluid won't correct a leak. If you add fluid
when your linings are worn, then you'll have too much
fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add
(or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is
done on the brake hydraulic system.CAUTION:
If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on
the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is
hot enough. You or others could be burned,
and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake
fluid only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake
warning light will come on. A chime will sound if you
try to drive with this warning light on. See ªBrake
System Warning Lightº in the Index.
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6-69 Fuses and Circuit Breakers
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from
short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit
breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused
by electrical problems.
Look at the silver
-colored band inside the fuse. If the
band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you
replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size
and rating. If a MaxiFuse

should blow, see your dealer
for service immediately.
If you ever have a problem on the road and don't have a
spare fuse, you can ªborrowº one that has the same
amperage. Pick some feature of your vehicle that you
can get along without
-- like the radio or cigarette
lighter
-- and use its fuse, if it is the correct amperage.
Replace it as soon as you can. You will find a fuse puller
clipped in both of the fuse blocks. Snap the wide end
of the fuse puller at the side indentations and pull the
fuse out.
The MaxiFuses are located in two fuse blocks, one
located in the engine compartment on the passenger's
side and the other under the rear seat on the driver's
side. If a MaxiFuse should blow, have your vehicle
serviced by your dealer immediately.Engine Compartment Fuse Block
The engine compartment
fuse block is located near
the front on the passenger's
side of the vehicle.
See ªEngine Compartment
Overviewº in the Index
for more information
on location.
Lift the cover to gain access. Fuse 22 or 23 can be
moved to the outer position to provide continuous power
to the accessory power outlet or cigarette lighter when
the ignition is not on. See your dealer for additional
assistance, if needed.
Leaving an accessory on for a long period of time can
drain the vehicle's battery.
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