How to Replace Brake Fluid by Yourself?
4 Answers
Drain the brake fluid from the reservoir and fill it with new brake fluid. One person presses the brake pedal (2-3 times) and holds it down without releasing, while another person loosens the bleeder screw on the brake caliper below, allowing fluid to flow out. When the pedal drops to the bottom, close the bleeder screw. Repeat this process several times until new fluid flows out. Continuously add fluid to the reservoir to prevent air from entering. Use a line wrench to loosen the two brake lines until brake fluid flows out. When there is no more brake fluid in the reservoir, tighten the two brake lines.
Changing brake fluid by yourself requires special attention to safety. First, gather all necessary tools: new brake fluid, socket wrench, clear plastic tubing, container, and gloves. Park on a level surface and engage the handbrake—it's best to have someone assist with pressing the brake pedal. Open the brake master cylinder cap, remove the old fluid, and refill with new fluid, remembering to cover it with a damp cloth to prevent corrosion from splashes. Start bleeding from the wheel farthest from the master cylinder, attaching the tubing to the bleeder screw and loosening it while your assistant presses the brake pedal several times until new fluid flows out without bubbles. Repeat the process for all four wheels, ensuring the fluid reservoir never runs dry to avoid air entering the system. After completion, check the fluid level and test the brakes by pressing firmly before driving.
Changing brake fluid requires some DIY skills. Prepare the correct type of brake fluid and lift the vehicle to remove wheels for easier access. The key is to attach a clear plastic tube to the caliper bleeder valve, with the other end submerged in a waste oil container. You'll need a helper: while you loosen the bleeder screw, they press the brake pedal. Once old fluid flows out, immediately tighten the screw. Repeat until clean new fluid appears, keeping the reservoir level above minimum. Never mix different brake fluid brands! After servicing all wheels, pump the brakes repeatedly to purge air until the pedal feels firm before driving.
I've changed the brake fluid a few times myself, and the key is teamwork. One person presses the brake pedal while the other operates underneath the car. The tools needed are just a wrench, tubing, and a bottle—no professional equipment required. Before starting, clean around the bleed screw to prevent contaminants from entering. After opening the bleed screw, have your partner slowly press the brake pedal. When bubbles appear in the clear tube, it means there's air, so keep pressing until the fluid flows out smoothly. After changing the fluid, take the car for a test drive and gently apply the brakes to check the effect. Avoid driving too fast for the first few kilometers to allow the new fluid to circulate properly.
