146 Section 1 Introduction to Automotive Technology Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. a hydraulic system to disengage the clutch. A clutch master cylinder, similar to a brake master cylinder, produces hydraulic pressure to activate the clutch release. The fluid in the clutch master cylinder should be checked. If the fluid level is low, add brake fluid to fill the reservoir almost full. Always watch for leaks. Checking Manual Steering Fluid Manual steering fluid is checked by removing either a fill plug or a designated bolt from the top of the box or rack. The lubricant should be almost even with the plug or bolt opening. If not, add the recom- mended amount and weight of fluid. Checking Windshield Washer Solution The windshield washer solution is normally visible through the side of the plastic storage tank. If low, add an approved washer solution. The solution will aid windshield cleaning and also prevent ice formation in cold weather. Checking Battery New cars use maintenance-free batteries, which do not require an electrolyte (acid) check. However, make sure that the battery terminals and case top are clean. A battery post and cable cleaning tool can be used on corroded connections. If the top of the battery is dirty, it can be cleaned with a solution of baking soda and water. See Figure 9-15. Filter Service Quite often, various filters used in a vehicle are replaced during lubrication service. Besides the engine oil and transmission filters, the technician may need to change or clean the air and fuel filters. If an air filter is extremely dirty, it is normally replaced. However, some manufacturers permit light dirt and dust to be tapped from the filter. Special foam or oil-bath (oil-filled) air filters can be cleaned as described in a service manual. Cabin filters are air filters that clean the air flow- ing into the passenger compartment. They are often high-density filters for blocking pollen and other airborne particles. Cabin filters are usually located and accessed under the right side of the dash. Fuel filters can be located almost anywhere in the fuel circuit. Modern fuel systems often use inline fuel filters between the fuel tank and the engine. In older C B A Cable brush Post brush Battery cable Battery post Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 9-15. Checking battery condition is important to vehi- cle maintenance. Battery problems are the number one cause of engine “no start” problems. A—Dirty battery top will drain the battery. Corroded terminals can prevent charging and starting. B—Battery post cleaning tool will remove resistance-causing corrosion from the high current conducting surfaces. C—Wash the top of the battery with baking soda and secure terminals.