How to Bleed Brakes

Bleeding brakes is an essential maintenance task that helps remove air bubbles from the brake lines, ensuring proper brake system functionality and responsiveness. While it’s recommended to have a professional perform this procedure, you can attempt to bleed your brakes by yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and tools. Check out the service guide from the team at Kelley Automotive Group below.

Note: This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of automotive systems and safety precautions. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this task, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.

How to Bleed Brakes by Yourself: Tools & Supplies

The first thing you’ll need to do is collect the correct tools so you can properly bleed your brakes:

1. Brake fluid: Check your vehicle’s specifications to determine the correct type of brake fluid to use.
2. Wrench or socket set: To loosen and tighten the bleeder screws.
3. Clear plastic tubing: To connect to the bleeder screws and collect the old brake fluid.
4. Brake bleeding kit (optional): This kit typically includes a one-way valve and tubing to simplify the bleeding process.

How to Bleed Brake Lines: Step-by-Step

1. Park your vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
2. Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. Remove the cap to expose the fluid.
3. Start with the brake furthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger side) and work your way towards the closest (front driver side).
4. Locate the brake bleeder screw on the caliper or wheel cylinder of the selected brake. Attach the clear plastic tubing securely over the bleeder screw, with the other end placed into a container to collect the old brake fluid.
5. Have an assistant sit in the driver’s seat and follow your instructions.
6. Instruct your assistant to slowly pump the brake pedal three to four times and then hold it down firmly.
7. With the pedal held down, use a wrench or socket set to open the bleeder screw slightly. As the screw opens, you’ll see old brake fluid and air bubbles flowing through the tubing into the container.
8. Once the flow slows down and there are no more air bubbles, close the bleeder screw tightly.
9. Instruct your assistant to release the brake pedal slowly.
10. Repeat steps 6-9 until you no longer see air bubbles in the fluid and clean brake fluid flows consistently.
11. Move to the next brake in the sequence and repeat the process until you’ve bled all four brakes.
12. After bleeding all brakes, check the brake fluid reservoir and top it up with fresh brake fluid as needed. Ensure it stays above the minimum level.
13. Reinstall the reservoir cap and dispose of the old brake fluid responsibly.

Learn How to Bleed Brake Lines or Schedule Service at Kelley Automotive Group!

Now that you know how to bleed brakes, remember to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and to follow proper safety precautions throughout the process. If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step, it’s best to seek professional assistance to ensure your brakes are properly bled and functioning correctly. Schedule your service appointment online and be sure to check out our specials to see how you can save on your next appointment.