I recently inherited an XC 70. I received a brake failurewarning today. I checked the fluid and it was low. I went to add fluid but the fluid won't drain into the reservoir. Is there some kind of filter or screen that needs to be removed first? If so, can't seem to get it out. Might be a silly question.

 

I'm not aware of anything that would inhibit the brake fluid from flowing into the reservoir. Keep in mind that low brake fluid either means worn out brakes or a fluid leak. Refilling the reservoir won't fix that.

The brake failure warning message can be set a number of ways, including a problem with the ABS system. Before we can give meaningful advice here, we need a few more details about what is going on.

 

I got a brake system failure just once, and only for a second. I read online that low brake fluid can cause that. I'm trying to add fluid because it's clearly low. When I pour the fluid into the reservoir it doesn't go down into the reservoir, it just fills up the top portion of the reservoir but never goes down into it. Is there something there that needs to be removed first?

 

there may be a particle screen in there or some mechanical obstruction possibly the level sensor is still in there. Not sure of how your specific year (?) is set up to measure the level. Agree with Tony that when you are low on any fluid (ie brake, power steering, coolant) the first thing is to do an inspection to try and figure out where the fluid went. You should check brake lines, calipers, around the master cylinder etc Usually its a leaky caliper...

 

With these vehicle warnings, there is too much two-dimensional thinking by owners. You get a brake failure warning and notice that the fluid is low, so you add fluid.

The fluid is low because something is worn out or leaking. A vehicle does not consume brake fluid in the normal course of operation. However, many owners are more interested in "turning the light out" than identifying and fixing the source of the issue.

 

Is it just me or does the reservoir's filler neck appear to have a plastic film stretched over it?

 

I think that it is just the lighting.