Lower vehicle. Remove pressure bleeding equipment and check reservoir level. Turn ignition on, with engine off. Apply moderate force to brake pedal, noting travel and feel. If pedal is firm and travel is not excessive, start engine and recheck. If okay, go to step 4) . If pedal feels soft or has excessive travel, go to next step.
Using scan tool, release and then apply each ABS motor 2-3 times, and cycle each ABS solenoid 5-10 times. When finished, apply front and rear motors to return pistons to upper position. DO NOT drive vehicle. Repeat pressure bleeding procedure.
If scan tool is not available, with foot off brake pedal run engine for at least 10 seconds to initialize ABS. DO NOT drive vehicle. After 10 seconds, turn ignition off. Repeat procedure 5 times to ensure trapped air has been dislodged. Repeat pressure bleeding procedure.
Road test vehicle, making several normal (non-ABS) stops from a moderate speed.

Fig 1: Identifying ABS Modulator Assembly Front & Rear Bleeder Valves

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

Completing Bleeding Procedure