How to Bleed Brakes

Maintaining your vehicle’s brake system involves numerous smaller services that ensure its optimal performance. Among these is brake bleeding, a procedure that significantly affects how long brake pads last. If air has managed to infiltrate your car’s brake system, understanding how to bleed brakes to expel it is crucial. The procedure might not be overly complex, but it can be quite time-consuming, particularly if you’re not the most mechanically inclined. While we strongly suggest booking an appointment at the Drive Burtness service center in Orfordville service station. We believe that every Orfordville and Whitewater driver should be aware of how to bleed brake lines.

The Importance of Brake Bleeding

Bleeding the brakes might seem daunting, but it’s an essential aspect of maintaining your car’s brakes. As time passes, the brake fluid’s resistance to moisture decreases, leading to the absorption of water. Air can enter the brake system, resulting in a “soft” or “spongy” brake pedal. By bleeding the brakes, any trapped air is expelled, restoring a firm feel to your brake pedal. This process is integral to answering the question, “how long should brake pads last?” or “how long do ceramic brake pads last?” because it will help preserve your brake pads, meaning few replacements.

A Step-By-Step Guide to Brake Bleeding

For those willing to attempt brake bleeding at home, you’ll need brake fluid, a box-end wrench, a fluid holder and tubing, and a helper. This procedure can directly influence how long do brake pads last, so it’s important to follow these steps carefully:

Step 1

Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct brake fluid. Brake fluid comes in various types, so it’s crucial to know which one is suitable for your vehicle. Your owner’s manual will also provide guidance on the brake fluid replacement intervals. a factor that can affect how long brake pads last.

Step 2

Lift your car using a jack on a firm and flat surface. All wheels should be removed.

Step 3

Locate and loosen the four caliper bleeding screws. If they don’t easily loosen, avoid using excessive force. Instead, apply some penetrating oil and wait for about 30 minutes before trying again. If the screw gets damaged or breaks, don’t proceed—bring your car to our service center immediately.

Step 4

Once the screws have been loosened, tighten them back up. The brake bleeding process needs to be done one brake at a time to prevent air bubbles, so the remaining three screws should remain tight.

Step 5

Open the hood and check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir. Ensure your car has an adequate amount of fluid. During the brake bleeding process, the master cylinder cap should be left loose but still resting atop the reservoir.

Step 6

Attach a clear tubing (about 1/4 inches in diameter) to the first bleeder screw. The other end of the tubing should be placed in a receptacle such as a plastic bottle.

Step 7

With the car engine off, have your assistant pump the brake pedal several times until they feel resistance. At this point, slightly open the bleeder screw.

Step 8

When the pedal is about to reach the floor, your assistant should notify you, and you should immediately close the bleeder screw. Then, monitor the fluid level in the master fluid reservoir, and add fresh fluid if necessary.

Step 9

Repeat the previous two steps five times for the same bleeder screw, or until there are no more bubbles in the fluid stream.

Step 10

Then, repeat steps 7, 8, and 9 for the other three bleeder screws, starting with the screw farthest from the master cylinder and ending with the one closest to it.

Step 11

After you’ve completed the brake bleeding process, have your assistant press and then quickly release the brakes. Keep an eye on the fluid in the master cylinder reservoir. If there’s significant bubbling, there’s still air in the system, and you’re not quite done. However, if the fluid only moves slightly, you’ve successfully bled the brakes.

Step 12

Before reinstalling the wheels, ensure each of the bleeder screws is tightened adequately. Don’t over-tighten—just ensure they’re secure.

Understanding Brake Pad Lifespan

It’s worth noting that the regular maintenance of your brake system not only ensures its optimal functioning but also directly influences how long your brake pads last or how long do ceramic brake pads last. Properly bled brakes provide efficient stopping power, reduce wear and tear, and ultimately prolong the lifespan of your brake pads. If you’ve been asking yourself, “how long should brake pads last?”, the answer largely depends on your vehicle’s maintenance, including regular brake bleeding. As a rule of thumb, taking care of your brakes can lead to brake pads lasting longer, ensuring that you get the most out of your vehicle’s braking system. Regular brake maintenance and bleeding are key to understanding how long brake pads last.

Need Brake Service? Call Drive Burtness in Orfordville!

Does your car’s brake pedal feel spongy when you press down? If so, your vehicle likely needs its brakes bled. This procedure can greatly impact how long brake pads last. So if you’d rather leave it to the professionals, our team at Drive Burtness, conveniently located near Janesville, is ready to assist! Schedule a service visit online, or contact us to learn more about our brake services. Don’t forget to check out our service specials for chances to save!