How to Bleed Brakes

Your brake system is possibly the most important part of your vehicle. Therefore, it’s essential that you keep it in top condition, so your car can keep running smoothly on the Bedford roads. One of the lesser-known elements of brake maintenance is called “bleeding.” This refers to the process of removing built-up moisture, air, and excess brake fluid from your brake system. As time goes on, your brake fluid becomes less resistant to moisture, absorbing unnecessary water and air and corroding the overall system. If you don’t regularly bleed your brakes, the system could get damaged. Although the process is a bit complicated, it’s straightforward if you follow the steps closely. The service team at Tulley BMW of Manchester has everything you need to know about how to bleed brake lines in the guide below.

How to Bleed Brakes: Step-by-Step Process

If you’re wondering how to bleed brakes by yourself, this guide should give you all the details. If you have any trouble, don’t hesitate to schedule a service appointment at our Londonderry-area service center so one of our experts can help. 

1. Determine what kind of brake fluid to use–your owner’s manual should tell you. This is an important step that you shouldn’t skip; using the wrong kind of brake fluid could damage your brake system.
2. Park your vehicle on level ground and mount it using four jack stands.
3. Loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheels from your vehicle.
4. Gently loosen and retighten each of the four caliper bleeding screws (one for each wheel). Be very careful, as breaking them will require a professional to step in. 
5. Check your brake fluid levels under the hood, adding more fluid if it’s less than full.
6. Place a ¼-inch clear tube inside a catch container (a plastic water bottle will do), and attach the other end to the bleeder screw.
7. Have a partner push the brake pedal down until they feel a bit of resistance. While they’re holding the pedal down, open the bleeder screw and let the excess fluid start to drain out into the catch container. Your partner will feel the pedal start to depress–have them keep gently pushing it down until it reaches the floor.
8. When the pedal reaches the floor, reattach the bleeder screw and top off the brake fluid reservoir. 
9. Repeat the steps above for all your brakes–your owner’s manual will tell you the correct order.
10. Make sure your bleeder screws are completely retightened. Replace the tires and lower your car back to the ground.

Discover More Service Tips with Tulley BMW of Manchester

If you have any questions about how to bleed brake lines, feel free to contact our office or stop by our service center to talk to an expert in person. We’re conveniently located near Auburn, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. If you’re looking to save on your next service appointment, be sure to check out our service specials!