How to Change Break Oil

Brake fluid should be changed at any time that the fluid shows evidence of moisture contamination. This can be recognized by a brownish color of the fluid. When this happens, the contamination causes rusting of the wheel cylinders and calipers and a residue buildup that can cause the brake system to malfunction. The malfunction is usually in the form of locking up to the point that the brakes will not release.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Suction ball Set of wrenches Floor jack Jack stands 1 quart of brake fluid Drip pan

1. • 1

     Raise and support the rear of the vehicle on jack stands. Raise the vehicle's hood. Remove the brake master cylinder cap and use the suction ball to remove all the fluid possible from the reservoir. Fill with new brake fluid.

   • 2

     Place the drip pan under the passenger side rear wheel. Using a wrench, loosen the bleeder screw on the rear brake. Have a helper push down the brake pedal and hold it down while the rear brake bleeder is closed. Once the brake bleeder is closed, have the helper allow the brake to rise. The only time the helper should push the brake to the floor is when the bleeder is open. He must not let the pedal up until the bleeder is closed or the rising pedal will suck air into the system causing spongy or very low brakes when done. Repeat this procedure for five repetitions on the same wheel and then move to the left rear and do the same.

   • 3

     Check and add brake fluid after every two to three repetitions. Do not let the master cylinder go dry or air can be sucked into the system.

   • 4

     Lower the vehicle and repeat from Step 1 for the front brakes, starting with the right front wheel and then moving to the left.

   • 5

     Check and fill the master cylinder as necessary.