Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Automated Bleed Procedure
Perform the automated ABS bleed procedure whenever one of the following conditions occurs:
- Manual bleeding at the wheel cylinders does not achieve the desired pedal height or feel.
- You replace the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV).
- Extreme loss of brake fluid has occurred.
- Air ingestion is suspected.
If none of the above conditions applies, use standard bleed procedures. Refer to DISC BRAKES & DRUM BRAKES or DISC BRAKES & DRUM BRAKES in Hydraulic Brakes.
This procedure uses a scan tool in order to cycle the system solenoid valves and to run the pump motor in order to purge the air from the secondary circuits. These secondary circuits are normally closed, and are only opened during system initialization at vehicle start up and during ABS operation. The automated bleed procedure opens these secondary circuits and allows any air trapped inside the BPMV to flow out toward the wheel cylinders or the calipers where the air can be purged out of the system.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.