To flush brake fluid properly, follow these steps:
Tools and Materials Needed
- Fresh brake fluid (correct type for your vehicle)
- Wrench for bleeder screws
- Clear tubing
- Catch container
- Turkey baster or syringe
- Safety gloves and eyewear
Step-by-Step Brake Fluid Flush Procedure
- Prepare the Vehicle
- Park the car on a level surface with the parking brake engaged.
- Open the hood and locate the brake master cylinder reservoir.
- Remove the cap and clean around it to prevent contamination.
- Remove Old Fluid from Master Cylinder
- Use a turkey baster or syringe to suck out as much old fluid as possible from the master cylinder reservoir to avoid mixing old and new fluid
- Refill Master Cylinder
- Fill the reservoir with fresh brake fluid to the recommended level.
- Keep the cap off or loosely placed to allow air to escape during bleeding
- Bleed the Brakes
- Start with the wheel farthest from the master cylinder (usually the rear passenger side).
- Attach clear tubing to the bleeder screw on the brake caliper or wheel cylinder; place the other end into a catch container.
- Have an assistant press the brake pedal fully, then open the bleeder screw with a wrench to let fluid flow out.
- Close the bleeder screw before the assistant releases the brake pedal to avoid air entering the system.
- Repeat this pumping and bleeding cycle until the fluid runs clear and free of air bubbles.
- Move to the next wheel in the order: rear passenger, rear driver, front passenger, front driver
- Monitor Fluid Level
- Frequently check and top off the master cylinder reservoir during bleeding to prevent it from running dry, which would introduce air into the brake lines
- Finish Up
- Once all wheels have been bled and the fluid is clear, tighten all bleeder screws securely.
- Replace the master cylinder cap.
- Test the brake pedal for firmness; if it feels spongy, repeat bleeding to remove any remaining air
- Clean Up
- Dispose of old brake fluid properly.
- Clean any spilled fluid immediately as brake fluid can damage paint and is corrosive.
This process removes old, water-contaminated brake fluid and replaces it with fresh fluid, ensuring optimal brake performance and safety
. The entire procedure can be done with one person using proper tools or with a helper for easier pedal pumping
. Safety Note: Always wear gloves and eye protection when working with brake fluid, and avoid contact with painted surfaces