How to Bleed Your Car Brakes? (Part 1)
Brake fluid is the lifeline of the brake system. This will do its job for many years before you have to change it. Over the years, the moisture resistivity will set in and soak up little water that lessens the effectivity of the brake fluid. At the same time, rust will start to become visible in other parts of the brake system. Changing the fluid at the proper time is a good way to secure the safety of your vehicle.
The fundamental part of changing brake fluid is by bleeding the brake system. This procedure is done to clear trapped air in the brake system at the same time, expels the old fluid out. Completely changing the fluid is basically expanding the bleeding session. Now, bleeding the brake system can be done even with a slight know how in handling tools at the comfort of your garage. All you need is someone to help you a bit.
So here are the following steps to help you.
STEP 1
Refer to the owner’s manual to find out the kind of brake fluid you need for your vehicle. It would be better if you likewise know the gaps that the manufacturer requires for your particular vehicle. There are so many variety of brake fluid available in the market, but they might not mix well with your car. Go to the nearest auto shop near you to find out the right fluid so you can work on the brakes. Perhaps, three 12-ounce cans to bleed your brake system is enough.
STEP 2
Raise your vehicle on firm ground. This could be in your driveway or in the garage. Assist by using four jack stands at the jacking points which was indicated in your owner’s manual. Well, most of the jacking points can be found under the car’s rocker panels which is at the back of the front wheels and right ahead of the rear wheels. Your vehicle should be up there but with a firm footing for safety. In doing the bleeding, you need to go under the car to take-off the four wheels so it is important to be careful.
STEP 3
Find the four caliper bleeding screws also called bleed nipples or bleeder valves which are typically seen at the top of every brake caliper to permit bleeding. Try to release the caliper lightly but if it does not move, then turn the wrench as hard as you can. If still it does not move, apply a penetrating oil and let it stay there for a couple of minutes and then try again. If it snaps off, go to your nearest car care center to help you.
Now, if you were able to take off all the bleed screw, put the three back again because you will do the bleeding one at a time. This will make sure that no air enters into the system. Remember that the brakes system’s foe are air bubbles. They just make your brake pedal sloppy and lessens its good performance. After screwing back the three bleed screw, start bleeding the first one. Again, bleeding is done, one at a time.
If you need help with bleeding the brakes, Chaney’s Collision Center can assist you with this concern. Chaney’s Collision Center can help also help you with other car concerns. All you need to do is call Chaney’s Collision Center at (623) 915-2886. More information will be discussed on How to Bleed Your Car Brakes? (Part 2)!