Brakes and Traction Control: Description and Operation

Brake System
Vehicle is equipped with power assisted front disc and rear drum brakes.

The front brake units consist of single piston calipers and vented disc brake rotors. The rear drum brakes are dual shoe, servo style units with automatic adjuster mechanism and cable operated parking brakes.

Hydraulic and Vacuum Components
All models are equipped with a vacuum operated power brake booster, a dual reservoir master cylinder and a combination valve. The valve consists of a front brake metering (hold-off) valve and a front/rear brake pressure differential valve and switch.

Anti Lock Brake Systems
Two antilock brake systems are available on this vehicle:
- A rear wheel antilock brake system (RWAL) is standard.
- An all wheel antilock brake system (ABS) is available as an option.

These ABS systems are designed to retard wheel lockup during periods of high wheel slip when braking by modulating fluid pressure to the wheel brake units.
- For more information see Antilock Brake System.

Brake Warning Lights
A RED warning light is used to alert the driver if a presure differential exists between the front and rear hydraulic systems.
- The light also alerts the driver when the parking brakes are not released.
- The light is located at the left side of the instrument cluster.

An AMBER warning light is used for the antilock brake system.
- It is adjacent to the red indicator light in the instrument cluster.
- The amber light alerts the driver if an antilock system fault occurs.

Brake Fluid/Lubricants/Cleaning Solvents
Recommended fluid for this vehicle is DOT 3 or better.

When servicing rear brakes, us Mopar multi mileage grease (or equivalent) to lubricate caliper slide surfaces, drum brake pivot pins and shoe contact points on the backing plates. Use GE 661 or DOW 111 silicone grease on the caliper bushings and mounting pins.

Use fresh brake fluid or brake cleaner to clean or flush brake system components. These are the only cleaning materials recommended.

CAUTION: Never use gasoline, kerosene, alcohol, motor oil, transmission fluid, or any fluid containing mineral oil to clean brake system components. These fluids damage rubber cups and seals. If system contamination is suspected, check the fluid for dirt, discoloration, or separation into distinct layers. Drain and flush the system with new brake fluid if contamination is suspected.