Brake Fluid: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek and 2015 Subaru Impreza. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

Do not let brake fluid come into contact with the painted surface of the vehicle body. Wash away with water immediately and wipe off if it is spilled by accident.
Avoid mixing brake fluid of different brands, or reusing the drained brake fluid to prevent fluid performance from degrading.
Be careful not to allow dirt or dust to enter into the reservoir tank.

Check the fluid for discoloration.
Check that the amount of brake fluid is between the lines of "MIN" (a) and "MAX" (b) from a straight view or within 90° to the right and left forward.
If out of the specified range, refill with brake fluid (c) or drain it.

CAUTION: Always check the level using the specified direction because there is a partition in the reservoir tank.

Fig 1: Identifying Brake Fluid Level (MAX/MIN)
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
If the amount of brake fluid is close to "MIN", confirm that there is no leakage from either the brake pipe or brake hose, and then that the worn brake pad is the cause of brake fluid decrease.
If the fluid is extremely discolored, or does not satisfy the specified amount, add or replace with new brake fluid.