How to Bleed Brakes

Sometimes air can get caught in your brake lines, resulting in a spongy feel when you press down the pedal. Bleeding brakes is the process of removing those air bubbles from the line, and while most Manhattan drivers visit a mechanic for this service, learning how to bleed brakes by yourself is doable with a little time and effort. Want to learn how to bleed brake lines like a pro? Take a look at our guide, and get more service tips from Major World Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Long Island City!

Why is Bleeding the Brakes Important? 

So, why bother learning how to bleed brakes at all? Whether you do it yourself or visit our service center, bleeding brakes can help you bring back your car’s performance. Air can get trapped in your brake lines over time, introducing moisture into the system as well. The result is poor quality braking that feels “soft” or “spongy” on your East Hill commute. Bleeding the brakes revives your system, so you can drive with proper control.

How to Bleed Brakes By Yourself 

Bleeding brakes can be a lengthy process, but you can do it with the right tools and techniques. You’ll need to gather up brake fluid, a box-end wrench, a fluid holder and tubing, and an assistant to help you before getting started. If you’re not sure what brake fluid to get, consult your owner’s manual or stop by our parts department for help.

Step 1: 

Raise your car with jacks and then remove all four wheels.

Step 2: 

Look for the caliper bleeding screws and loosen them. If they seem stuck, spray with penetrating oil and wait for 30 minutes until you try again. Do not continue if the screws strip or snap, and call our service center instead.

Step 3: 

Now that your screws are loose, tighten them to begin. You’ll only bleed one brake at a time, so it’s important to keep the remaining three tight.

Step 4: 

Check the brake fluid level on the master cylinder and unscrew the cap. Leave the cap on top for easy access. You’ll start by bleeding the brake furthest from the master cylinder or whatever your owner’s manual recommends.

Step 5: 

Place one end of your clear tubing over the first bleeder screw and feed the other end into a plastic bottle or other receptacle. Place this catch container above the bleeder screw’s height so air won’t move back into the braking system. If you can’t find tubing that’s around ¼ inch in diameter, try a brake bleeding kit at our parts department.

Step 6: 

Ask your assistant to get into the car and pump the brakes until they feel resistance. They will keep their foot on the pedal as you open the bleeder screw. They will feel the pedal slowly drop as you see fluid move through the tube. 

Step 7: 

Your assistant will notify you right before the pedal reaches the floor. At that point, close the bleeder screw. Inspect the fluid level in the master fluid reservoir and add fluid if needed.

Step 8: 

Repeat the previous two steps about five times at the same screw or until the fluid stream is free of bubbles.

Step 9: 

Move to the other three bleeder screws in order and repeat the same steps to bleed the brakes fully. You’ll start with the screw furthest away from the master cylinder and moving to the one closest to it. 

Step 10: 

Once you’re done, ask your assistant to apply the brakes and quickly release. At the same time, watch the master cylinder reservoir to check for bubbling. If you notice vigorous bubbling, you’ll want to bleed the brakes again. If the fluid moves only slightly, you’re done.

Step 11: 

Tighten each bleeder screw again, but be sure to not overtighten. Then, place the wheels back on your car and take your vehicle for a spin around Westbury! 

Get Brake Service at Major World Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram!

Do you need more advice about how to bleed brakes? Want to pick up fresh brake fluid? Our service center can help you. Visit us in Long Island City or contact us at Major World Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram online at your convenience to learn more about your options. And of course, we’re happy to provide high-quality brake service if you’d prefer to let the pros take care of the heavy lifting for you!