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.
Brake Fluid: Bleeding
HINT: If any work is performed on the brake system or if air in the brake lines is suspected, bleed the air out of the brake system.
- FILL RESERVOIR WITH BRAKE FLUID
Fluid: SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT3
- BLEED MASTER CYLINDER
HINT: If the master cylinder has been disassembled or if the reservoir becomes empty, bleed the air out of the master cylinder.
- Using SST, disconnect the brake lines from the master cylinder sub-assy.
SST 09023-00101
- Slowly depress and hold the brake pedal.
- Cover the outer holes with your fingers, and release the brake pedal.
- Repeat (b) and (c) 3 or 4 times.
- Using SST, disconnect the brake lines from the master cylinder sub-assy.
- BLEED BRAKE LINE
- Connect the vinyl tube to the brake caliper.
- Depress the brake pedal several times, then loosen the bleeder plug with the pedal depressed.
- When fluid stops coming out, tighten the bleeder plug, then release the brake pedal.
- Repeat (b) and (c) until all the air in the fluid is completely bled out.
- Repeat the above procedures for each wheel to bleed the air out of the brake line.
Torque: 8.3 N.m (85 kgf.cm, 74 in.lbf)
- CHECK FLUID LEVEL IN RESERVOIR
- Check the fluid level and add fluid if necessary.
Fluid: SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT3
- Check the fluid level and add fluid if necessary.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
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