Brake Bleeding: Service and Repair

Brake System Bleeding

Service Repair No - 70.25.02

Bleeding of the brake system can be carried out using the procedures given on T4, or by following the manual procedure given below.

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1. The following procedure covers bleeding the complete system but where only the primary or secondary circuit have been disturbed in isolation, it should only be necessary to bleed that system. Partial bleeding of the hydraulic system is only permissible if a brake pipe or hose has been disconnected with only minor loss of fluid.

WARNING: If any components upstream of brake modulator, including the modulator itself are replaced, the brake system must be bled using the procedure on T4, to ensure that all air is expelled from the new component(s).

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1. Raise front and rear of vehicle.

WARNING: Do not work on or under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always support the vehicle on safety stands.

2. Check all pipe and hose connections are tight and there are no signs of leakage.





3. Top-up fluid level in brake reservoir to 'MAX' mark.

WARNING: Do not allow dirt or foreign liquids to enter the reservoir. Use only new Shell DOT 4 ESL brake fluid from airtight containers. Do not mix brands of brake fluid as they may not be compatible.





4. Attach bleed tube to front brake caliper bleed screw on passenger side, submerge free end in a clear container containing brake fluid.
5. Apply pressure to brake pedal several times, then apply steady pressure.
6. Loosen bleed screw to release brake fluid and air. Allow pedal to return unassisted.
7. Depress brake pedal steadily through its full stroke and allow to return unassisted. Repeat procedure until a flow of clean, air-free fluid is purged into container, then whilst holding pedal at end of its downward stroke, tighten bleed screw to 14 Nm (10 ft. lbs.).

CAUTION: Ensure the fluid in the reservoir is maintained between the minimum and maximum levels throughout the bleed procedure using new brake fluid.

8. Top up brake system reservoir.





9. Repeat procedure at each wheel in the sequence shown.

WARNING: Braking efficiency may be seriously impaired if the incorrect bleed sequence is used.

10. Remove tube from bleed screw and fit bleed screw dust cap.
11. Apply brakes and check for leakage.
12. Remove stands and lower vehicle.
13. Road test vehicle. Check brake pedal for short firm travel when brakes are applied.